Vulnerability Description
A local privilege escalation vulnerability exists in NSClient++ 0.5.2.35 when both the web interface and ExternalScripts features are enabled. The configuration file (nsclient.ini) stores the administrative password in plaintext and is readable by local users. By extracting this password, an attacker can authenticate to the NSClient++ web interface (typically accessible on port 8443) and abuse the ExternalScripts plugin to inject and execute arbitrary commands as SYSTEM by registering a custom script, saving the configuration, and triggering it via the API. This behavior is documented but insecure, as the plaintext credential exposure undermines access isolation between local users and administrative functions.
CVSS Score
HIGH
Affected Products
| Vendor | Product | Versions |
|---|---|---|
| Nsclient | Nsclient\+\+ | 0.5.2.35 |
Related Weaknesses (CWE)
References
- https://raw.githubusercontent.com/rapid7/metasploit-framework/master/modules/expExploitThird Party Advisory
- https://vulncheck.com/advisories/nsclient-localtoremote-system-compromiseExploitThird Party Advisory
- https://www.exploit-db.com/exploits/46802ExploitThird Party AdvisoryVDB Entry
- https://www.exploit-db.com/exploits/48360ExploitVDB Entry
FAQ
What is CVE-2025-34078?
CVE-2025-34078 is a vulnerability with a CVSS score of 7.8 (HIGH). A local privilege escalation vulnerability exists in NSClient++ 0.5.2.35 when both the web interface and ExternalScripts features are enabled. The configuration file (nsclient.ini) stores the administ...
How severe is CVE-2025-34078?
CVE-2025-34078 has been rated HIGH with a CVSS base score of 7.8/10. Review the CVSS metrics above for detailed severity breakdown.
Is there a patch for CVE-2025-34078?
Check the references section above for vendor advisories and patch information. Affected products include: Nsclient Nsclient\+\+.