CVE-2026-15380 in Symantec Management Suite
Summary
by MITRE • 07/17/2026
A non-administrator interactive user can obtain full SYSTEM code execution through a DCOM/task scheduler logic chain — no network access, no memory corruption required (ITMS 8.7.3)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/17/2026
This vulnerability represents a critical privilege escalation flaw in the ITMS 8.7.3 software that allows any non-administrator interactive user to achieve full SYSTEM code execution through a sophisticated DCOM and task scheduler logic chain. The vulnerability operates entirely within the local system context without requiring network access or memory corruption, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by attackers who have already gained limited user access to a system. The attack vector leverages the inherent trust relationships within Windows components, specifically exploiting how DCOM (Distributed Component Object Model) services interact with the Windows Task Scheduler to create an execution path that bypasses standard security boundaries.
The technical flaw stems from improper privilege validation within the DCOM communication layer when processing task scheduler requests. An attacker can manipulate the DCOM object instantiation process to gain elevated privileges, effectively exploiting a logic flaw in how the system handles trusted component interactions. This vulnerability is categorized under CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) and represents a classic case of privilege escalation through trusted component abuse. The attack chain typically involves initiating a DCOM call that appears legitimate to the task scheduler service, which then executes with elevated privileges due to insufficient validation of the calling context.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it completely undermines the security model of the affected system. Any user with interactive access can escalate their privileges to SYSTEM level, potentially allowing them to execute arbitrary code, modify system files, access sensitive data, or establish persistent backdoors. This capability transforms a regular user account into a fully compromised system administrator, bypassing all standard authentication and authorization mechanisms. The vulnerability affects systems where ITMS 8.7.3 is installed and running with default configurations, making it particularly prevalent in enterprise environments where such software is commonly deployed for system management and monitoring purposes.
From a mitigation perspective, this vulnerability requires immediate attention through patching the specific ITMS version or implementing compensating controls that restrict DCOM access and task scheduler permissions. Organizations should implement the principle of least privilege by limiting which users can interact with DCOM services and task scheduler components. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as privilege escalation through trusted relationships, specifically mapping to techniques such as 'DCOM Enumeration' and 'Scheduled Task/Job' manipulation. System administrators should also monitor for suspicious DCOM activity and implement application whitelisting controls to prevent unauthorized execution of potentially malicious code through the task scheduler interface. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and privilege checking in distributed component architectures where trusted relationships can be exploited by attackers with minimal initial access.