Overview
CVE-2025-66575 details a critical security vulnerability affecting VeeVPN version 1.6.1. This unquoted service path vulnerability within the VeePNService allows remote attackers to potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated (LocalSystem) privileges. This exploit can be triggered during system startup or reboot, posing a significant risk to affected systems.
Technical Details
The vulnerability stems from the way Windows services are started. If the path to the executable for a service contains spaces and is not enclosed in quotes, Windows may attempt to execute parts of the path as separate executables. An attacker can exploit this by placing a malicious executable in a directory along the unquoted path. When the VeePNService attempts to start, Windows may inadvertently execute the attacker’s malicious executable with LocalSystem privileges.
Specifically, the VeePNService service path, if not properly quoted during installation or configuration, becomes susceptible. The attacker needs to have write access to a folder along the service path to place the malicious executable.
CVSS Analysis
Currently, a CVSS score has not been assigned to CVE-2025-66575. However, given the potential for remote code execution with LocalSystem privileges, it’s highly likely that a CVSS score would classify this vulnerability as critical or high severity. We strongly recommend taking immediate action to mitigate this risk.
Possible Impact
Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to:
- Complete System Compromise: Attackers gain full control over the affected system with LocalSystem privileges.
- Data Theft: Sensitive data stored on the system can be accessed and exfiltrated.
- Malware Installation: The system can be used to deploy malware, ransomware, or other malicious software.
- Lateral Movement: The compromised system can be used as a stepping stone to attack other systems on the network.
- Denial of Service: The system can be rendered unusable, disrupting critical services.
Mitigation and Patch Steps
The primary mitigation step is to ensure that the VeePNService service path is properly enclosed in quotation marks. Here’s how to verify and correct the service path:
- Verify the Service Path: Open the Registry Editor (regedit) and navigate to
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\VeePNService. Examine the “ImagePath” value. - Correct the Service Path (if unquoted): If the ImagePath value is not enclosed in quotes and contains spaces, modify it to include quotes. For example, if the path is
C:\Program Files\VeePN\VeePNService.exe, change it to"C:\Program Files\VeePN\VeePNService.exe". - Restart the Service (or System): After modifying the ImagePath, restart the VeePNService service or reboot the system to ensure the changes take effect.
- Apply Patch (If Available): Check the VeePN website for any available patches or updates that address this vulnerability. Applying the latest version is the best long-term solution.
References
VeePN GitHub Repository
VeePN Official Website
Exploit-DB: VeePN 1.6.1 Unquoted Service Path Exploit
VulnCheck Advisory: VeeVPN 1.6.1 Unquoted Service Path Remote Code Execution
