CVE-2026-18262: Parallels RAS Client RDP Backend Service Exposed Dangerous Function Local Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
Parallels RAS Client RDP Backend Service Exposed Dangerous Function Local Privilege Escalation Vulnerability. This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Parallels RAS Client. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target system in order to exploit this vulnerability.
The specific flaw exists within the RAS RDP Backend Service. The issue results from an exposed dangerous function. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code in the context of SYSTEM. Was ZDI-CAN-28885.
Affected Software
Remediation
Recommended actions to resolve this vulnerability, in priority order.
- Upgrade
Upgrade to a fixed release to a version that resolves this vulnerability.
Patch ZDI-CAN-28885 - Compensating control
Mitigate local privilege escalation by limiting access to the Parallels RAS RDP Backend Service so only trusted users/sessions can reach/trigger it (e.g., restrict which accounts or hosts are allowed to execute low-privileged code paths that could expose the service’s dangerous function).
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of access does an attacker need before exploiting this issue?
The attacker must already be able to execute code locally on the target system with low privileges. This is not described as a remote, unauthenticated attack.
What is the impact after successful exploitation?
Successful exploitation allows arbitrary code execution in the context of SYSTEM, enabling full local privilege escalation.
Which component is affected?
The flaw is in the Parallels RAS Client RAS RDP Backend Service and is caused by an exposed dangerous function.