CVE-2021-31422: Parallels Desktop e1000e Time-Of-Check Time-Of-Use Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

Published Apr 29, 2021
·
Updated

This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Parallels Desktop 16.1.1-49141. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute high-privileged code on the target guest system in order to exploit this vulnerability. The specific flaw exists within the e1000e virtual device. The issue results from the lack of proper locking when performing operations on an object. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code in the context of the hypervisor. Was ZDI-CAN-12527.

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 high-privileged code on the target guest system in order to exploit this vulnerability. The specific flaw exists within the e1000e virtual device. The issue results from the lack of proper locking when performing operations on an object. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code in the context of the hypervisor.

Affected Software

2 affected components
Parallels Parallels Desktop=16.1.1-49141
Parallels Desktop

Event History

Apr 29, 2021
CVE Published
via MITRE·04:31 PM
Data Sourced
via MITRE·04:31 PM
DescriptionSeverityWeakness
Mar 24, 2025
Advisory Published
via ZDI·07:01 PM
Free Weekly Intel

Don't miss critical vulnerabilities

Join thousands of security professionals who receive our weekly digest of trending CVEs, zero-days, and exploited vulnerabilities.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the vulnerability ID for this Parallels Desktop vulnerability?

The vulnerability ID for this Parallels Desktop vulnerability is CVE-2021-31422.

2

What is the severity level of CVE-2021-31422?

The severity level of CVE-2021-31422 is high with a score of 7.5.

3

How can this vulnerability be exploited?

This vulnerability can only be exploited by local attackers who have the ability to execute high-privileged code on the target guest system.

4

What software versions are affected by CVE-2021-31422?

CVE-2021-31422 affects Parallels Desktop 16.1.1-49141.

5

Are there any fixes or patches available for this vulnerability?

For information on available fixes or patches, please refer to the vendor's official website or contact Parallels support.

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