CVE-2010-1805 in Safari
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Apple Safari 4.x before 4.1.2 and 5.x before 5.0.2 on Windows allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse explorer.exe (aka Windows Explorer) program in a directory containing a file that had been downloaded by Safari.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/18/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-1805 represents a critical untrusted search path issue affecting Apple Safari web browser versions 4.x prior to 4.1.2 and 5.x prior to 5.0.2 on Windows operating systems. This flaw exploits the manner in which Safari handles file downloads and executes associated programs, creating a privilege escalation vector through malicious file placement in download directories. The vulnerability operates through a sophisticated attack chain that leverages the trust relationship between the browser and system components, specifically targeting the Windows Explorer executable.
This security weakness stems from Safari's improper handling of file execution paths when processing downloaded content. When users download files through Safari, the browser may inadvertently execute programs from the same directory containing the downloaded file, without proper validation of the program's authenticity or origin. The vulnerability specifically exploits the fact that Windows Explorer, when launched from certain contexts, may be replaced by a malicious executable named explorer.exe, which then executes with elevated privileges. This behavior creates a dangerous precedent where local attackers can manipulate the system's execution flow through carefully crafted file placement.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass broader system compromise capabilities. Attackers can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal user interaction beyond the typical download process, making it an attractive target for automated attacks. The attack vector specifically targets the Windows file system's search order behavior, where the system may execute a malicious explorer.exe file instead of the legitimate Windows Explorer, thereby bypassing standard security controls.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-426, which describes the "Untrusted Search Path" weakness, and represents a classic example of how application design flaws can be exploited to bypass operating system security mechanisms. The vulnerability also maps to several ATT&CK techniques including privilege escalation through malicious file execution and persistence mechanisms. The attack chain typically involves downloading a malicious file through Safari, placing a Trojan horse explorer.exe in the same directory, and then executing the download process, which triggers the malicious program with elevated privileges. Organizations should consider implementing strict file execution policies, directory permissions controls, and regular security assessments to mitigate such risks, particularly in environments where web browsers are used extensively for file downloads.
The remediation approach for CVE-2010-1805 requires immediate patch application to Safari versions 4.1.2 and 5.0.2, which addressed the untrusted search path handling. System administrators should also implement network-based controls to prevent unauthorized file execution, establish proper directory permissions, and conduct regular security audits to identify potential malicious file placements. Additionally, user education regarding safe download practices and the risks associated with executing downloaded programs from untrusted sources remains crucial for comprehensive protection against this class of vulnerability.