CVE-2021-34868: Parallels Desktop Toolgate Uncontrolled Memory Allocation Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

Published Jan 25, 2022

Updated

This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Parallels Desktop 16.1.3-49160. 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 Toolgate component. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of user-supplied data, which can result in an uncontrolled memory allocation. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code in the context of the hypervisor. Was ZDI-CAN-13712.

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 Toolgate component. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of user-supplied data, which can result in an uncontrolled memory allocation. 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=16.1.3-49160

Parallels Desktop

Event History

Jan 25, 2022

CVE Published

via MITRE·03:30 PM

Data Sourced

via MITRE·03:30 PM

DescriptionSeverityWeakness

Mar 24, 2025

Advisory Published

via ZDI·07:01 PM

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CVE-2021-34868?

CVE-2021-34868 is a vulnerability that allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Parallels Desktop 16.1.3-49160.

How can an attacker exploit CVE-2021-34868?

An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target guest system in order to exploit this vulnerability.

What is the severity of CVE-2021-34868?

CVE-2021-34868 has a severity rating of 8.8 (high).

Which software versions are affected by CVE-2021-34868?

CVE-2021-34868 affects Parallels Desktop 16.1.3-49160.

How can I fix CVE-2021-34868?

To fix CVE-2021-34868, update to the latest version of Parallels Desktop and follow the recommended security guidelines provided by Parallels.