CVE-2008-4388Appstream Client Vulnerability
The LaunchObj ActiveX control before 5.2.2.865 in launcher.dll in Symantec AppStream Client 5.2.x before 5.2.2 SP3 MP1 does not properly validate downloaded files, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via the installAppMgr method and unspecified other methods.
Published Jan 20, 2009 · Updated Apr 22, 2026
Key Facts
Patch immediately- CVE-2008-4388 is a critical-severity vulnerability (CVSS 9.3 v2) affecting Appstream Client (Symantec).
- It is not listed in any known-exploited vulnerabilities catalog. Public exploit code is available.
- EPSS estimates a 38% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.
- No fixed version is listed yet; check the vendor advisory for mitigations.
- Brandefense priority: patch immediately, because public exploit code exists for a high-severity flaw.
Scores
CVSS v2
9.3
AV:N/AC:M/Au:N/C:C/I:C/A:C
EPSS (30-day exploit likelihood)
38%
Higher than 98.5% of all scored CVEs
Exploit maturity
Weaponized
ATLAS score
54/100
Publication score, see How it works
Exploitation Verdict
KEV listed
Not listed
Federal due date
None
No federal due date
Ransomware use
Not reported
Attributed actors
None named
Exploit & Defence Guidance
Exploit maturity
Weaponized
Public exploit code
2
Proof-of-concept links
In-the-wild evidence
0
Reports of active use
Advisories And Exploit References
Description
The LaunchObj ActiveX control before 5.2.2.865 in launcher.dll in Symantec AppStream Client 5.2.x before 5.2.2 SP3 MP1 does not properly validate downloaded files, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via the installAppMgr method and unspecified other methods.
Affected Products
1 affected entries in total| Product | Affected versions | Fixed in |
|---|---|---|
| Appstream ClientSymantec | 5.2 | n/a |
Timeline
Publicly disclosed
Jan 20, 2009
Last updated
Apr 22, 2026
Weakness Type
- CWE-20 Improper Input Validation
References
- patchsymantec.com · 2009.01.15.html
- exploitMSF symantec_appstream_unsafe.rb
- exploitExploitDB-16512
- other1021609
- otherVU#194505
FAQ
Common Questions.
The LaunchObj ActiveX control before 5.2.2.865 in launcher.dll in Symantec AppStream Client 5.2.x before 5.2.2 SP3 MP1 does not properly validate downloaded files, which allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via the installAppMgr method and unspecified other methods.
Affected: Appstream Client (Symantec) versions 5.2. The full list is in the CVE brief.
It is not listed in any known-exploited vulnerabilities catalog.
No, it is not currently listed in the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog.
Public exploit code is available.
No fixed version is listed yet; check the vendor advisory for mitigations.
Brandefense priority: patch immediately, because public exploit code exists for a high-severity flaw.
Is CVE-2008-4388 On Your Attack Surface?
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