CVE-2024-7251 is a local privilege escalation vulnerability identified in Comodo Internet Security Pro version 12.2.4.8032, specifically within the cmdagent executable. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of symbolic links (CWE-59: Improper Link Resolution Before File Access), where the software fails to securely resolve file paths before creating or modifying files. An attacker who already has the ability to execute code with low privileges on the affected system can exploit this flaw by creating a malicious symbolic link. When cmdagent interacts with this link, it inadvertently writes or creates files at unintended locations, allowing the attacker to escalate their privileges to SYSTEM level. This escalation grants the attacker full control over the system, enabling arbitrary code execution with the highest privileges. The vulnerability does not require user interaction but does require prior local code execution, which could be achieved through other vulnerabilities or social engineering. The CVSS v3.0 score of 7.8 reflects the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, combined with relatively low attack complexity and privileges required. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability was disclosed by the Zero Day Initiative (ZDI) under the identifier ZDI-CAN-22832. No official patches were listed at the time of disclosure, emphasizing the need for immediate mitigation and monitoring.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-7251 is the potential for local attackers to escalate privileges from a low-privileged user to SYSTEM-level access on affected Comodo Internet Security Pro installations. This can lead to complete system compromise, including unauthorized access to sensitive data, modification or deletion of critical files, installation of persistent malware, and disruption of system availability. For organizations, this vulnerability undermines the security assurances provided by the Comodo product itself, potentially allowing attackers to bypass security controls and gain full administrative control. The requirement for prior local code execution means the vulnerability could be chained with other exploits or insider threats, increasing the overall risk. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently limits immediate widespread impact, but the high severity and ease of exploitation once local access is obtained make it a critical concern for environments where Comodo Internet Security Pro is deployed. This includes enterprise networks, managed service providers, and any organization relying on this security product for endpoint protection.

1. Apply patches or updates from Comodo as soon as they become available to address this vulnerability directly. 2. Until patches are released, restrict local user permissions to minimize the ability to execute arbitrary code or create symbolic links. 3. Implement strict application whitelisting and endpoint protection policies to prevent unauthorized code execution. 4. Monitor filesystem activity for suspicious symbolic link creation or unusual file operations involving cmdagent or related processes. 5. Use host-based intrusion detection systems (HIDS) to detect attempts to exploit link-following vulnerabilities. 6. Conduct regular audits of user privileges and remove unnecessary local access rights. 7. Educate users and administrators about the risks of local code execution and the importance of maintaining least privilege principles. 8. Consider isolating or segmenting systems running Comodo Internet Security Pro to limit lateral movement if compromise occurs. 9. Employ layered security controls to detect and respond to privilege escalation attempts promptly.