ZDI-26-142: Trend Micro Apex One Security Agent Cache Mechanism Time-Of-Check Time-Of-Use Local Privilege Escalation Vulnerability

Published Mar 3, 2026
·
Updated

This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Trend Micro Apex One Security Agent. 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 cache mechanism. The issue results from the lack of proper cache key checking during signature verification. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code in the context of root.

Other sources

This vulnerability allows local attackers to escalate privileges on affected installations of Trend Micro Apex One Security Agent. An attacker must first obtain the ability to execute low-privileged code on the target system in order to exploit this vulnerability. The ZDI has assigned a CVSS rating of 7.8. The following CVEs are assigned: CVE-2025-71216.

ZDI

Affected Software

1 affected component
Trend Micro Apex One Security Agent

Event History

Mar 3, 2026
Advisory Published
via ZDI·12:00 AM
Data Sourced
via ZDI·12:00 AM
DescriptionSeverityAffected Software
Advisory Published
via ZDI·06:00 AM
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Frequently Asked Questions

1

What is the severity of ZDI-26-142?

The severity of ZDI-26-142 is classified as critical due to its potential for local privilege escalation.

2

How do I fix ZDI-26-142?

To fix ZDI-26-142, update Trend Micro Apex One Security Agent to the latest version that addresses this vulnerability.

3

Who is affected by ZDI-26-142?

Users of the Trend Micro Apex One Security Agent are affected by ZDI-26-142.

4

What type of vulnerability is ZDI-26-142?

ZDI-26-142 is a local privilege escalation vulnerability that arises from a flaw in the cache mechanism.

5

Can ZDI-26-142 be exploited remotely?

No, ZDI-26-142 requires local access to exploit the vulnerability.

Contact

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