CVE-2024-55632: Privilege Escalation in Trend Micro Apex One

Successful exploitation of CVE-2024-55632 allows an attacker who already possesses the ability to execute low-privileged code on a system to escalate their privileges. This means an attacker could potentially gain SYSTEM-level access, allowing them to install malware, modify system configurations, steal sensitive data, or disrupt operations. The impact is significant as it bypasses standard access controls and grants the attacker near-complete control over the compromised machine. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where Apex One is deployed as a primary endpoint security solution, as a successful attack could compromise the entire endpoint.

1. Reserved2024-12-09
2. Published2024-12-31
3. EPSS updated2026-04-02

The primary mitigation for CVE-2024-55632 is to upgrade Trend Micro Apex One to version 14.0.14203 or later. If immediate upgrading is not possible, consider implementing stricter access controls and monitoring for suspicious activity. Review existing security policies to ensure they limit the ability of low-privileged users to execute code. While a direct workaround isn't available, regularly scanning systems for unauthorized processes and unusual network connections can help detect potential exploitation attempts. After upgrade, confirm by verifying the Apex One version is 14.0.14203 or higher via the Apex One console.