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CVE-2025-0140: CWE-266: Incorrect Privilege Assignment in Palo Alto Networks GlobalProtect App

Medium
VulnerabilityCVE-2025-0140cvecve-2025-0140cwe-266
Published: Wed Jul 09 2025 (07/09/2025, 22:58:28 UTC)
Source: CVE Database V5
Vendor/Project: Palo Alto Networks
Product: GlobalProtect App

Description

An incorrect privilege assignment vulnerability in the Palo Alto Networks GlobalProtect™ App on macOS and Linux devices enables a locally authenticated non administrative user to disable the app even if the GlobalProtect app configuration would not normally permit them to do so. The GlobalProtect app on Windows, iOS, Android, Chrome OS and GlobalProtect UWP app are not affected.

AI-Powered Analysis

AILast updated: 07/09/2025, 23:16:18 UTC

Technical Analysis

CVE-2025-0140 is a vulnerability identified in the Palo Alto Networks GlobalProtect App versions 6.0.0 through 6.3.0, specifically affecting macOS and Linux platforms. The issue stems from an incorrect privilege assignment (CWE-266) that allows a locally authenticated non-administrative user to disable the GlobalProtect VPN client, even when the app's configuration is intended to prevent such actions. This vulnerability does not affect GlobalProtect on Windows, iOS, Android, Chrome OS, or the UWP app. The flaw arises because the application improperly enforces privilege boundaries, enabling users with limited permissions to perform actions reserved for administrators. Exploitation requires local access and no user interaction beyond authentication, with no need for elevated privileges or network access. The CVSS v4.0 score of 6.8 (medium severity) reflects the moderate impact on availability and integrity, as disabling the VPN client can disrupt secure network connectivity and potentially expose the device to untrusted networks. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability could be leveraged by malicious insiders or attackers who have gained limited local access to bypass security controls enforced by GlobalProtect, undermining endpoint security posture on affected systems.

Potential Impact

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to endpoint security, particularly for those relying on GlobalProtect for secure VPN connectivity on macOS and Linux devices. Disabling the VPN client can lead to loss of secure communication channels, exposing sensitive corporate data to interception or unauthorized access over unsecured networks. This can compromise confidentiality and integrity of communications and may facilitate lateral movement within corporate networks if attackers gain local access. Organizations with remote or hybrid workforces using macOS or Linux endpoints are especially vulnerable, as users might inadvertently or maliciously disable VPN protections, increasing exposure to cyber threats. Additionally, critical infrastructure and regulated sectors in Europe that mandate strict network security controls could face compliance risks if VPN protections are circumvented. Although the vulnerability requires local authentication, insider threats or attackers exploiting other vulnerabilities to gain local access could leverage this flaw to weaken endpoint defenses.

Mitigation Recommendations

European organizations should implement a multi-layered mitigation strategy beyond generic patching advice. First, enforce strict endpoint access controls and limit local user privileges to the minimum necessary, reducing the pool of users who can exploit this vulnerability. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to monitor for unauthorized attempts to disable or tamper with GlobalProtect processes. Use configuration management tools to enforce and periodically verify GlobalProtect app settings, ensuring that unauthorized changes are detected and reversed promptly. Network segmentation can limit the impact of compromised endpoints. Until a patch is available, consider deploying host-based firewall rules or application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized execution or termination of GlobalProtect components. Additionally, conduct user awareness training to highlight the importance of maintaining VPN connectivity and reporting suspicious activity. Finally, maintain up-to-date inventory of macOS and Linux devices running affected GlobalProtect versions to prioritize remediation efforts once patches are released.

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Technical Details

Data Version
5.1
Assigner Short Name
palo_alto
Date Reserved
2024-12-20T23:24:43.326Z
Cvss Version
4.0
State
PUBLISHED

Threat ID: 686ef4b5a83201eaaca35355

Added to database: 7/9/2025, 11:01:09 PM

Last enriched: 7/9/2025, 11:16:18 PM

Last updated: 7/15/2025, 8:32:35 PM

Views: 13

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