CVE-2024-52561 is a high-severity privilege escalation vulnerability identified in Parallels Desktop for Mac version 20.1.1 (build 55740). The flaw resides in the Snapshot functionality of the virtualization software. When a user deletes a snapshot of a virtual machine, a root-level service is responsible for verifying and modifying the ownership of the snapshot files. However, this process is vulnerable to exploitation via symbolic link (symlink) manipulation. An attacker with limited privileges can create a symlink that points to arbitrary files owned by root. When the root service follows this symlink during the ownership verification and modification process, it inadvertently changes the ownership of these root-owned files to the lower-privileged user. This incorrect ownership assignment (CWE-708) effectively allows the attacker to escalate their privileges from a limited user to root level. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity but requiring local privileges and no user interaction. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the nature of the vulnerability makes it a critical concern for users of the affected Parallels Desktop version. The vulnerability is specific to Mac environments running this Parallels Desktop version and involves local exploitation vectors through the snapshot deletion mechanism.

For European organizations using Parallels Desktop for Mac, especially version 20.1.1, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Successful exploitation allows attackers to gain root privileges on the host Mac system, which can lead to full system compromise. This could result in unauthorized access to sensitive corporate data, disruption of virtualized environments, and potential lateral movement within the network if the compromised host is connected to internal resources. Organizations relying on Parallels Desktop for development, testing, or production virtualization environments may face operational disruptions and data breaches. The impact is heightened in sectors with stringent data protection regulations such as finance, healthcare, and government institutions across Europe. Additionally, since the vulnerability requires local access, insider threats or attackers who have already gained limited access could leverage this flaw to escalate privileges and deepen their foothold.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should: 1) Immediately update Parallels Desktop for Mac to a patched version once released by the vendor, as no patch links are currently provided. 2) Until a patch is available, restrict access to Mac hosts running the vulnerable Parallels Desktop version to trusted users only, minimizing the risk of local exploitation. 3) Implement strict file system permissions and monitor for suspicious symlink creation or unusual file ownership changes related to Parallels snapshot files. 4) Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of detecting privilege escalation attempts and anomalous system modifications on Mac hosts. 5) Educate users about the risks of local privilege escalation and enforce least privilege principles to reduce the number of users with local access. 6) Regularly audit and monitor logs for any signs of exploitation attempts involving snapshot deletion or ownership changes. These targeted measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on controlling local access, monitoring specific filesystem behaviors, and preparing for rapid patch deployment.