CVE-2016-20094: AnyDesk 2.5.0 Unquoted Service Path Elevation of Privilege

Published Jun 19, 2026
·
Updated

AnyDesk 2.5.0 contains an unquoted service path vulnerability that allows local users to execute arbitrary code with SYSTEM privileges by exploiting the service installation. Attackers can insert malicious executables in the system root path that execute with elevated privileges during application startup or system reboot.

Affected Software

2 affected components
AnyDesk AnyDesk=2.5.0
AnyDesk AnyDesk=2.5.0

Remediation

Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.

  1. Upgrade

    Upgrade AnyDesk to a version that resolves this vulnerability.

    Fixed in 2.5.0
  2. Compensating control

    Mitigate the unquoted service path elevation of privilege by preventing local users from being able to place malicious executables in the system root path used by the AnyDesk service during startup/reboot (restrict write/modify permissions to that path for non-admin users).

Event History

Jun 19, 2026
CVE Published
via MITRE·02:16 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·02:16 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeakness
Data Sourced
via NVD·03:16 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeaknessAffected Software
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Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2016-20094?

The severity of CVE-2016-20094 is high with a score of 8.5.

2

How do I fix CVE-2016-20094?

To fix CVE-2016-20094, ensure that the service path is properly quoted to prevent unquoted service path exploitation.

3

What type of vulnerability is CVE-2016-20094?

CVE-2016-20094 is an unquoted service path vulnerability that allows for elevation of privilege.

4

What can attackers do by exploiting CVE-2016-20094?

Attackers can execute arbitrary code with SYSTEM privileges by exploiting the unquoted service path in AnyDesk 2.5.0.

5

Which version of AnyDesk is affected by CVE-2016-20094?

CVE-2016-20094 specifically affects AnyDesk version 2.5.0.

Contact

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