CVE-2010-0103 in DUO USB
Summary
by MITRE
UsbCharger.dll in the Energizer DUO USB battery charger software contains a backdoor that is implemented through the Arucer.dll file in the %WINDIR%\system32 directory, which allows remote attackers to download arbitrary programs onto a Windows PC, and execute these programs, via a request to TCP port 7777.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/02/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-0103 represents a sophisticated backdoor implementation within the Energizer DUO USB battery charger software suite, specifically targeting Windows operating systems through a malicious component named UsbCharger.dll. This backdoor operates through a secondary malicious file named Arucer.dll that is strategically placed in the Windows system32 directory, demonstrating a classic persistence mechanism that allows the malicious code to remain active across system reboots and maintain covert access to compromised endpoints. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it leverages a legitimate system directory for its malicious operations, making detection more challenging for traditional security solutions that may not immediately flag system32 as a potential source of malicious activity.
The technical implementation of this backdoor operates through a TCP port 7777 listening mechanism that accepts remote connections from attackers, creating a command and control channel that enables the execution of arbitrary programs on the compromised system. This approach aligns with common patterns found in malware architectures where a persistent listening port provides attackers with continuous access to execute commands, download additional payloads, and maintain control over the infected machine. The backdoor functionality extends beyond simple remote code execution to include the ability to download and install additional malicious software, potentially transforming the initial compromise into a more severe security incident involving multiple attack vectors and persistent threats.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations and individual users who have installed the Energizer DUO software, as it provides attackers with a legitimate pathway to establish persistent access to Windows systems without requiring additional exploitation techniques. The attack surface is particularly dangerous because it can be triggered through normal software installation processes, meaning that users who simply install the battery charger software may unknowingly provide attackers with a foothold in their systems. The vulnerability operates at a system level, bypassing many user-level security controls and potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges, access sensitive data, and establish further persistence mechanisms within the network environment.
The implementation of this backdoor demonstrates a clear violation of security best practices and represents a significant concern for cybersecurity professionals who must address both the immediate threat and the broader implications for software supply chain security. This vulnerability can be categorized under CWE-910 as "Use of Exploitable Remote Service" and aligns with ATT&CK techniques involving Persistence through Registry Run Keys and Service Execution, as well as Command and Control through custom network protocols. Organizations should implement comprehensive network monitoring to detect traffic on TCP port 7777 and establish strict software installation policies to prevent unauthorized applications from being installed on critical systems. Mitigation strategies should include immediate removal of the affected software, network segmentation to limit lateral movement, and enhanced endpoint detection capabilities to identify similar backdoor implementations in other software products.
The presence of this backdoor in legitimate software distribution channels highlights the importance of software supply chain security and the need for comprehensive code review processes that include analysis of third-party components and their potential for malicious behavior. This vulnerability serves as a reminder that attackers often leverage legitimate software to establish initial access points, making it essential for organizations to maintain strict control over software installations and continuously monitor for suspicious network activity patterns that may indicate compromise. The long-term impact of such vulnerabilities extends beyond immediate exploitation to include potential data exfiltration, system compromise, and the establishment of persistent threat infrastructure that can be used for extended periods without detection.