CVE-2008-2147 in VLC
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in VideoLAN VLC before 0.9.0 allows local users to execute arbitrary code via a malicious library under the modules/ or plugins/ subdirectories of the current working directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/15/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-2147 represents a critical untrusted search path weakness in VideoLAN VLC media player versions prior to 0.9.0. This flaw exists within the application's library loading mechanism, specifically when processing modules and plugins located in the current working directory. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate or sanitize the paths used when loading dynamic libraries, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to exploit the system through carefully crafted file placement. The issue is classified under CWE-427, which specifically addresses uncontrolled search path elements, a category that encompasses improper handling of library search paths and dynamic loading mechanisms. This vulnerability directly relates to the ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which involves executing malicious code through the use of legitimate system tools and processes.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a local attacker places a malicious shared library file within the modules/ or plugins/ subdirectories of the current working directory where VLC is executing. When VLC attempts to load its plugins or modules, it will inadvertently load and execute the malicious library code due to the insecure search path behavior. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it does not require any special privileges beyond the ability to write files to the working directory, making it accessible to any user who can execute VLC in a directory they control. This type of attack vector is classified as a privilege escalation vulnerability, as it allows a low-privilege user to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the VLC process. The flaw is particularly concerning in environments where users might be tricked into running VLC from directories containing malicious libraries or where automatic execution of VLC from user-controlled locations is possible.
The operational impact of CVE-2008-2147 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to perform more sophisticated attacks including privilege escalation, data exfiltration, and system compromise. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can effectively take control of the VLC process and potentially escalate privileges to the level of the user running the application. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the system, as it allows unauthorized code execution within the context of the media player process. This issue particularly impacts enterprise environments where VLC is commonly deployed for multimedia playback, as it could be exploited through social engineering attacks or by compromising user accounts in environments where users might be tricked into executing VLC from malicious directories. Organizations using older versions of VLC without proper security controls are particularly vulnerable to this type of attack.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-2147 should focus on immediate patching of the VLC application to version 0.9.0 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the untrusted search path vulnerability. System administrators should implement proper file permissions and access controls on directories where VLC is executed, ensuring that only authorized users can write to these locations. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by running VLC with minimal required privileges and avoiding execution from user-controlled directories. Additionally, organizations should implement application whitelisting controls to prevent execution of unauthorized libraries and monitor for suspicious file creation patterns in VLC-related directories. Network segmentation and monitoring should be employed to detect potential exploitation attempts, and regular security assessments should verify that no malicious libraries have been introduced into the system. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of secure coding practices, particularly in library loading and dynamic code execution mechanisms, as outlined in security standards such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST Cybersecurity Framework.