CVE-2026-2542 identifies an unquoted search path vulnerability in Total VPN version 0.5.29.0 on Windows platforms, specifically involving the win-service.exe executable located in the default installation directory (C:\Program Files\Total VPN\). Unquoted search path vulnerabilities arise when Windows attempts to execute a program whose path includes spaces but is not enclosed in quotes, causing the OS to search for executables in unintended directories. An attacker with local access and low privileges can exploit this by placing a malicious executable with a name matching a path segment (e.g., 'Program.exe' or 'Total.exe') in a directory earlier in the search order. When the service starts, the system may execute the attacker's code with the service's privileges, potentially leading to privilege escalation or code execution. The attack complexity is high due to the need for local access and precise manipulation of the file system. No user interaction is required, and the vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vendor has not issued a patch or responded to the disclosure, leaving systems exposed. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, but the vulnerability's CVSS 4.0 score of 7.3 (high severity) reflects its potential impact. Organizations using Total VPN on Windows should be aware of this risk and take immediate steps to mitigate it.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2026-2542 can be significant, especially for those relying on Total VPN for secure remote access. Successful exploitation could allow a local attacker to escalate privileges, execute arbitrary code with elevated rights, or maintain persistence within the network. This threatens the confidentiality of sensitive data transmitted over VPN connections, the integrity of endpoint systems, and the availability of VPN services critical for remote work and secure communications. Sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure that depend heavily on VPNs for secure connectivity are particularly at risk. The lack of vendor response and patches increases the window of exposure, potentially inviting targeted attacks or lateral movement within compromised networks. Given the complexity and local access requirement, the threat is more likely to arise from insider threats or attackers who have already gained limited foothold within the environment.

To mitigate CVE-2026-2542, European organizations should implement the following specific measures: 1) Restrict local user permissions to prevent unauthorized file creation in directories that could be exploited by unquoted search path vulnerabilities. 2) Manually inspect the Total VPN installation directory and remove or rename any suspicious executables that could be leveraged in an attack. 3) Use application whitelisting or endpoint protection solutions to block unauthorized executables from running, especially in the Total VPN directory. 4) If possible, modify the service startup configuration to use fully quoted paths for executables or relocate the service executable to a path without spaces. 5) Monitor system logs and endpoint behavior for unusual process launches or privilege escalations related to Total VPN services. 6) Engage with the vendor for updates or consider alternative VPN solutions with better security track records until a patch is released. 7) Educate local users about the risks of executing untrusted files and enforce strict endpoint security policies. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on the specific nature of the unquoted search path vulnerability and the affected product environment.