CVE-2019-17148: Parallels Desktop Command Injection Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

Published Jan 7, 2020
·
Updated

This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Parallels Desktop Parallels Desktop version 14.1.3 (45485). An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target guest system in order to exploit this vulnerability. The specific flaw exists within the Parallels Service. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of a user-supplied string before using it to execute a system call. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and execute code in the context of root. Was ZDI-CAN-8685.

Other sources

This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Parallels Desktop. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target guest system in order to exploit this vulnerability. The specific flaw exists within the Parallels Service. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of a user-supplied string before using it to execute a system call. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and execute code in the context of root.

ZDI

Affected Software

2 affected components
Parallels Parallels Desktop Macos=14.1.3
Parallels Desktop

Event History

Jan 7, 2020
CVE Published
via MITRE·11:05 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·11:05 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeakness
Mar 24, 2025
Advisory Published
via ZDI·07:01 PM

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of CVE-2019-17148?

CVE-2019-17148 has a high severity rating as it allows local attackers to escalate privileges.

2

How do I fix CVE-2019-17148?

To fix CVE-2019-17148, update Parallels Desktop to version 14.1.4 or later.

3

Who is affected by CVE-2019-17148?

CVE-2019-17148 affects users of Parallels Desktop version 14.1.3 on macOS.

4

What type of vulnerability is CVE-2019-17148?

CVE-2019-17148 is a local privilege escalation vulnerability.

5

Can an attacker exploit CVE-2019-17148 remotely?

No, an attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target guest system to exploit CVE-2019-17148.

Contact

SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
132 Wickham Terrace
Fortitude Valley,
QLD 4006, Australia
info@secalerts.co
By using SecAlerts services, you agree to our services end-user license agreement. This website is safeguarded by reCAPTCHA and governed by the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. All names, logos, and brands of products are owned by their respective owners, and any usage of these names, logos, and brands for identification purposes only does not imply endorsement. If you possess any content that requires removal, please get in touch with us.
© 2026 SecAlerts Pty Ltd.
ABN: 70 645 966 203, ACN: 645 966 203