CVE-2005-4590 in kiosk engine
Summary
by MITRE
spb kiosk engine 1.0.0.1 allows local users to bypass restrictions on allowed applications via (1) removable media containing a program that will execute because of the autorun setting and (2) applications that are able to invoke other applications as demonstrated by a file: url specifying a .exe file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/01/2017
The spb kiosk engine version 1.0.0.1 contains a critical security vulnerability that undermines its core purpose of restricting unauthorized application execution. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of autorun functionality and application invocation mechanisms, creating pathways for local attackers to circumvent established security controls. The flaw specifically targets the kiosk mode implementation where users should be restricted to predefined applications only, yet the vulnerability allows execution of arbitrary programs through legitimate system mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits two distinct attack vectors that leverage Windows autorun behavior and URL protocol handling. The first vector involves removable media devices containing malicious executables that automatically execute due to the autorun feature being enabled within the kiosk environment. This occurs because the kiosk engine fails to properly disable or monitor autorun functionality for removable storage devices, allowing malicious payloads to execute without user interaction. The second vector exploits the file URL protocol handling where applications can invoke other executables through specially crafted file: URLs that reference .exe files, bypassing the intended application whitelist restrictions.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability fundamentally compromises the security model of the spb kiosk engine by enabling privilege escalation and unauthorized application execution. Local users can leverage these attack vectors to gain access to system resources, execute malicious software, and potentially escalate privileges beyond the intended kiosk restrictions. The impact extends beyond simple application bypass as it undermines the entire purpose of kiosk environments which are typically deployed in public access scenarios, retail terminals, and secure environments where unauthorized access must be prevented. This vulnerability essentially transforms a controlled environment into a potential attack vector for malware deployment and system compromise.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-787, representing an out-of-bounds write condition in the kiosk engine's application handling logic, and can be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter usage. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it requires no network connectivity or remote exploitation capabilities, making it an ideal vector for local privilege escalation attacks. Organizations deploying spb kiosk engine 1.0.0.1 should immediately implement mitigations including disabling autorun functionality for removable media, implementing strict URL protocol filtering, and applying application whitelisting controls. The recommended remediation approach includes disabling the autorun feature at the system level, implementing proper input validation for URL handlers, and ensuring that only authorized applications can be executed within the kiosk environment. Additionally, regular security audits should verify that kiosk configurations remain intact and that no unauthorized modifications have been made to the system's application execution policies.