Platform
windows
Component
spy-emergency
Fixed in
23.0.206
CVE-2016-20056 is a privilege escalation vulnerability affecting Spy Emergency version 23.0.205. This flaw stems from an unquoted service path, allowing local attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. Successful exploitation grants attackers LocalSystem access, potentially compromising the entire system. A fix is available from the vendor.
The primary impact of CVE-2016-20056 is the ability for a local attacker to gain complete control over the affected system. By exploiting the unquoted service path, an attacker can place a malicious executable within the service path of 'SpyEmrgHealth' or 'SpyEmrgSrv'. Triggering a service restart or system reboot will then execute this malicious code with LocalSystem privileges. This allows the attacker to install malware, steal sensitive data, modify system configurations, and potentially pivot to other systems on the network. This vulnerability shares similarities with other unquoted service path vulnerabilities, where the lack of proper quoting allows arbitrary code execution.
CVE-2016-20056 is a relatively old vulnerability, but unquoted service path flaws are consistently exploited. There is no indication of it being actively exploited in the wild at this time. Public proof-of-concept exploits are likely available, given the nature of the vulnerability. It was published on 2026-04-04. The EPSS score is likely medium, reflecting the ease of exploitation and potential impact.
Exploit Status
EPSS
0.01% (2% percentile)
CISA SSVC
CVSS Vector
The primary mitigation for CVE-2016-20056 is to upgrade to a patched version of Spy Emergency. If upgrading is not immediately feasible, a temporary workaround involves renaming any executable files within the service path directories to prevent them from being executed. Additionally, restrict access to the service path directories to only authorized personnel. Monitor system logs for suspicious service restarts or unusual process activity. Consider implementing a Windows Security Baseline that enforces proper quoting of service paths to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future. After upgrade, confirm by verifying the service paths no longer contain executable files and that the service runs without errors.
Update Spy Emergency to a patched version. The vulnerability resides in the unquoted service path, allowing arbitrary code execution. Updating to a version later than 23.0.205 should resolve the issue.
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CVE-2016-20056 is a vulnerability in Spy Emergency version 23.0.205 that allows local attackers to escalate privileges due to an unquoted service path, enabling code execution with LocalSystem privileges.
You are affected if you are using Spy Emergency version 23.0.205 and have not upgraded to a patched version. Local attackers can exploit this vulnerability to gain elevated privileges.
The recommended fix is to upgrade to a patched version of Spy Emergency. If upgrading is not possible, rename executable files in the service path directories as a temporary workaround.
While there is no confirmed active exploitation, the vulnerability is well-understood and public proof-of-concepts likely exist, making it a potential target.
Please refer to the vendor's website or security mailing lists for the official advisory regarding CVE-2016-20056 in Spy Emergency.
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