CVE-2004-2290 in Windows
Summary
by MITRE
Microsoft Windows XP Explorer allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via a HTML and script in a self-executing folder that references an executable file within the folder, which is automatically executed when a user accesses the folder.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/27/2019
This vulnerability exists in Microsoft Windows XP Explorer where the file manager fails to properly validate file paths and execution contexts when processing self-executing folders containing HTML and script content. The flaw occurs when a malicious folder contains both HTML markup and script references that point to executable files within the same directory structure. When a user navigates to this folder through Windows Explorer, the system automatically executes the referenced executable without proper user confirmation or security validation. This represents a classic cross-site scripting vulnerability that has been extended to include local privilege escalation through file execution mechanisms. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-74 and CWE-94 categories, which address improper neutralization of special elements used in data queries and code injection respectively. The attack vector leverages the Windows Explorer's automatic execution behavior when encountering certain file types, specifically targeting the automatic execution of .exe files referenced through HTML script tags within folder structures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows attackers to achieve arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the logged-in user. The exploitation requires minimal user interaction beyond simply opening the malicious folder, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users frequently browse shared network drives or receive files from untrusted sources. Attackers can craft malicious folder structures that appear legitimate while containing hidden executable payloads that execute automatically upon folder access. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where users may not be security-aware and where shared network resources are commonly accessed. The exploit chain begins with the creation of a malicious folder structure that includes HTML content referencing local executables, followed by the user accessing this folder through Windows Explorer, which triggers the automatic execution of the embedded payload.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on multiple defensive layers including user education about suspicious folder structures and automatic execution behaviors. System administrators should implement strict folder access controls and disable automatic execution of files within shared directories. The recommended approach includes enabling Windows Explorer's security features such as the "Do not automatically run programs from the Internet" setting and implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent unauthorized executable execution. Organizations should also consider disabling the automatic execution of scripts and HTML content within file explorer contexts. From a defensive standpoint, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which addresses command and scripting interpreter usage, and T1204 which addresses user execution of malicious files. Network segmentation and endpoint protection solutions should be configured to monitor for suspicious folder access patterns and automatic execution events. The most effective long-term solution involves updating to newer operating systems that do not exhibit this behavior, as Windows XP reached end-of-life and no longer receives security updates, leaving systems vulnerable to such legacy exploits that remain active in compromised environments.