CVE-2007-4785 in Micro Vault Fingerprint Access Software
Summary
by MITRE
Sony Micro Vault Fingerprint Access Software, as distributed with Sony Micro Vault USM-F USB flash drives, installs a driver that hides a directory under %WINDIR%, which might allow remote attackers to bypass malware detection by placing files in this directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/02/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-4785 represents a significant security flaw in Sony's Micro Vault Fingerprint Access Software implementation. This software was distributed pre-installed on Sony Micro Vault USM-F USB flash drives, creating a persistent backdoor mechanism that exploited the trust relationship between legitimate software and the operating system. The vulnerability specifically manifests through the installation of a kernel-mode driver that operates with elevated privileges, allowing it to manipulate the file system at a fundamental level. The malicious behavior occurs when the software creates a hidden directory within the Windows system directory, effectively establishing a covert location where files can be stored without normal detection mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the driver's ability to manipulate file system attributes and directory structures at the kernel level, bypassing standard Windows file access controls and security policies. This approach leverages the principle of least privilege violation by installing components that operate with system-level permissions while maintaining stealth characteristics. The hidden directory functionality enables attackers to store malicious payloads or tools in locations that standard antivirus solutions typically do not scan or monitor, effectively creating a persistent storage location that remains undetected by conventional security measures. The vulnerability's design demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of operating system internals and security bypass techniques.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited by remote attackers to establish covert presence on compromised systems. The attack surface is expanded through the legitimate software distribution channel, making detection more difficult as users trust the software's origin. Security researchers have classified this as a privilege escalation vulnerability that can be leveraged for persistent malware installation and data exfiltration. The impact extends beyond immediate exploitation as the hidden directory can be used for long-term storage of additional malicious components, creating a staging area for more complex attacks. This vulnerability also undermines user trust in legitimate software vendors and demonstrates how legitimate security tools can be weaponized for malicious purposes.
The security implications of CVE-2007-4785 align with multiple ATT&CK framework techniques including T1566 for credential access and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter usage. The vulnerability also maps to CWE-276, which addresses improper privilege management, and CWE-552, concerning file and directory permissions. Organizations should implement comprehensive endpoint detection and response measures to identify unauthorized driver installations and hidden directories. Mitigation strategies include disabling or removing the affected software, implementing strict driver signature enforcement policies, and conducting regular system audits for hidden directories. The vulnerability serves as a critical example of how supply chain attacks can be executed through legitimate software distribution, emphasizing the need for robust software supply chain security practices and continuous monitoring of system integrity.