CVE-2022-4149: Local privilege escalation using log file
The Netskope client service (prior to R96) on Windows runs as NT AUTHORITY\SYSTEM which writes log files to a writable directory (C:\Users\Public\netSkope) for a standard user. The files are created and written with a SYSTEM account except one file (logplaceholder) which inherits permission giving all users full access control list. Netskope client restricts access to this file by allowing only read permissions as a standard user. Whenever the Netskope client service restarts, it deletes the logplaceholder and recreates, creating a race condition, which can be exploited by a malicious local user to create the file and set ACL permissions on the file. Once the file is created by a malicious user with proper ACL permissions, all files within C:\Users\Public\netSkope\ becomes modifiable by the unprivileged user. By using Windows pseudo-symlink, these files can be pointed to other places in the system and thus malicious users will be able to elevate privileges.
Affected Software
Remediation
Information
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CVE-2022-4149?
CVE-2022-4149 is a vulnerability in the Netskope client service on Windows, allowing a standard user to write log files to a writable directory.
How does CVE-2022-4149 affect Windows?
CVE-2022-4149 affects the Netskope client service running on Windows, specifically versions prior to R96.
What is the severity of CVE-2022-4149?
CVE-2022-4149 has a severity level of high with a severity value of 7.
How can CVE-2022-4149 be exploited?
CVE-2022-4149 can be exploited by a standard user who is able to create and write log files in the C:\Users\Public\netSkope directory.
Is there a fix for CVE-2022-4149?
Yes, updating the Netskope client service to version R96 or higher will fix CVE-2022-4149.