CVE-2019-18988VulnerabilityPublished 11/03/2021Updated 10/24/2026

CVE-2019-18988: TeamViewer Desktop Bypass Remote Login Vulnerability

Affects TeamViewer DesktopSource CISA KEV

Severity

High

No CVSS score published yet

Exploitation: Actively exploited – in CISA KEV since 11/03/2021
KEV deadline: 05/03/2022
EPSS: 4.7% chance of exploitation in 30 days – higher than 91% of CVEs

What to do

CISA required action

Apply updates per vendor instructions.

nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2019-18988 (opens in a new tab)

Description

CVE-2019-18988 is a vulnerability in TeamViewer Desktop that allows bypass of remote-login access control. The issue arises because the same AES encryption key is reused across different customers' installations. An attacker who obtains this key can decrypt sensitive information stored in the registry or configuration files, including the Unattended Access password, enabling unauthorized remote login to affected systems.

Summary

TeamViewer Desktop uses a single AES key for encrypting sensitive data across multiple customer installations. This key reuse enables attackers who know the key to decrypt protected information such as the Unattended Access password stored locally. Exploiting this vulnerability allows bypassing remote-login access controls, effectively granting unauthorized remote access to the system.

Impact

An attacker with knowledge of the shared AES key can decrypt stored credentials and configuration data, including the Unattended Access password. This leads to unauthorized remote access to affected systems, compromising confidentiality and potentially allowing full control over the system.

Mitigation

Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Until an official fix is available, restrict access to local configuration files and registry keys where sensitive data is stored. Monitor for unauthorized access attempts and consider disabling Unattended Access if not required.

Weaknesses

CWE-521Unclassified weakness (opens in a new tab)

What to do

Description

AnalysisAI-generated, updated 10/24/2026, 08:55:22 UTC

Weaknesses

References

Related threats