CVE-2021-21011 is a vulnerability classified as an uncontrolled search path element (CWE-427) found in Adobe Captivate 2019, specifically version 11.5.1.499 and earlier. This vulnerability arises when the software improperly handles the search path for executable files or libraries, allowing an attacker to influence which files are loaded during execution. In this case, an attacker who already has permissions to write to the file system can place malicious executables or libraries in a location that Adobe Captivate will prioritize when searching for dependencies or executables. This can lead to privilege escalation, where the attacker can execute code with higher privileges than initially granted. The vulnerability does not require user interaction beyond the attacker having write access to the file system, and it does not require authentication beyond that. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, and no official patches or updates have been linked in the provided information. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed in January 2021, with Adobe as the vendor and Captivate as the affected product. The uncontrolled search path element vulnerability is a common security weakness that can be exploited to escalate privileges by hijacking the execution flow of an application through malicious path manipulation.

For European organizations using Adobe Captivate 2019 or earlier versions, this vulnerability poses a moderate risk. Captivate is widely used for e-learning content creation and training, often within corporate, educational, and governmental environments. An attacker with write access to the file system—potentially through other vulnerabilities, insider threats, or compromised accounts—could exploit this flaw to escalate privileges, potentially gaining administrative control over affected systems. This could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive training materials, intellectual property, or internal communications. Additionally, privilege escalation can serve as a stepping stone for further lateral movement within networks, increasing the risk of broader compromise. The impact is particularly significant in environments where Captivate is installed on shared or multi-user systems, or where endpoint security is lax. However, since exploitation requires prior write access, the vulnerability is less likely to be exploited remotely without initial foothold, reducing the risk of widespread automated attacks.

Upgrade Adobe Captivate to the latest available version beyond 11.5.1.499, as vendors typically address such vulnerabilities in subsequent releases even if no direct patch link is provided. Restrict file system write permissions strictly to trusted users and processes, especially in directories where Adobe Captivate executables and libraries reside. Implement application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized executables or libraries from running, mitigating the risk of malicious code execution via path hijacking. Conduct regular audits of file system permissions and monitor for unauthorized changes in directories related to Adobe Captivate installations. Use endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect unusual privilege escalation attempts or suspicious process behaviors linked to Adobe Captivate. Educate users and administrators about the risks of privilege escalation vulnerabilities and enforce the principle of least privilege to limit potential attack vectors. Isolate systems running Adobe Captivate from critical network segments where possible to limit lateral movement in case of compromise.