Implement file integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized modifications to nssm.exe and other critical binaries. Set up alerts for any changes to service executable files, particularly those running under high-privilege accounts.
This vulnerability, discovered in mid-2025, allows a low-privileged local attacker to exploit set on the nssm.exe file. This misconfiguration enables an authenticated user to replace the legitimate nssm.exe binary with a malicious one. Once replaced, the next time NSSM is invoked—whether by a service restart, a scheduled task, or an unsuspecting administrator—the malicious code executes with the elevated privileges of the calling process. Typically, this means the attacker can gain SYSTEM or Administrator-level access , allowing them to install malware, create new administrative users, or exfiltrate sensitive data. nssm-2.24 privilege escalation
Windows Privilege Escalation — Part 1 (Unquoted Service Path) Windows Privilege Escalation — Part 1 (Unquoted Service
Attackers can install additional backdoors, rootkits, and persistence mechanisms that remain undetected for extended periods, turning the compromised system into a long-term foothold. a scheduled task
When NSSM 2.24 is present, it is usually targeted via three common Windows service misconfigurations: Head Mare and Twelve: Joint attacks on Russian entities