CVE-2002-2282 in VirusScan
Summary
by MITRE
McAfee VirusScan 4.5.1, when the WebScanX.exe module is enabled, searches for particular DLLs from the user s home directory, even when browsing the local hard drive, which allows local users to run arbitrary code via malicious versions of those DLLs.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/12/2018
This vulnerability exists in McAfee VirusScan version 4.5.1 where the WebScanX.exe module exhibits insecure dynamic loading behavior when processing web content. The flaw occurs because the module searches for specific DLL files in the user's home directory regardless of the browsing context, creating an attack surface where local users can manipulate the system by placing malicious DLLs in strategic locations. The vulnerability stems from improper privilege separation and insecure library loading practices that violate fundamental security principles of least privilege and secure coding standards.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the Windows dynamic linking mechanism where applications load DLLs from predictable locations without proper validation of the source or integrity of the loaded modules. When WebScanX.exe executes, it performs a search for specific DLL names in the user's home directory, which typically contains user-specific configuration and executable files. This behavior creates a race condition and privilege escalation opportunity where a local attacker can place a malicious DLL with the same name as the expected module, causing the system to execute unauthorized code with the privileges of the user running the application. This flaw directly relates to CWE-426 Untrusted Search Path and CWE-74 Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows local users to execute arbitrary code on systems running McAfee VirusScan 4.5.1 without requiring administrative privileges. Attackers can leverage this weakness to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or perform other malicious activities within the compromised system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the user level and can be exploited by anyone with local access to the system, making it a preferred attack vector for privilege escalation attacks that align with ATT&CK technique T1068 Valid Accounts and T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter. The exploitability is high due to the predictable nature of the search path and the minimal requirements for successful exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of McAfee VirusScan to a version that addresses the insecure DLL loading behavior. System administrators should disable the WebScanX module when it is not actively needed, and implement proper file system permissions to restrict write access to user home directories. Additional defensive measures include monitoring for suspicious DLL loading patterns, implementing application whitelisting policies, and conducting regular security audits of installed software components. Organizations should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege for user accounts and ensuring that all system components are regularly updated to address known vulnerabilities. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper validation of dynamic library loading operations to prevent such privilege escalation scenarios.