CVE-2010-3151 in Onlocation Cs4
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Adobe On Location CS4 Build 315 allows local users, and possibly remote attackers, to execute arbitrary code and conduct DLL hijacking attacks via a Trojan horse ibfs32.dll that is located in the same folder as an OLPROJ file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/07/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3151 represents a critical untrusted search path issue affecting Adobe On Location CS4 Build 315. This flaw stems from the application's improper handling of dynamic link library (dll) loading mechanisms, creating a pathway for malicious code execution through dll hijacking techniques. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the application processes OLPROJ files, which are project files used by Adobe On Location for managing media assets and workflows.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the application's search path behavior where it prioritizes loading dll files from the current working directory before checking system directories. This design flaw allows attackers to place a malicious dll file named ibfs32.dll in the same directory as an OLPROJ file, enabling the application to inadvertently load and execute the attacker-controlled code. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited by both local users with system access and potentially remote attackers who can influence the placement of project files. This behavior aligns with CWE-426, which describes untrusted search path vulnerabilities where applications execute code from untrusted locations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it enables sophisticated attack vectors including privilege escalation and persistent access. When a user opens a malicious OLPROJ file, the application's improper dll loading mechanism results in arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the user running the application. This creates opportunities for attackers to establish backdoors, escalate privileges, or conduct further reconnaissance within the compromised system. The attack surface is broadened by the fact that OLPROJ files can be shared through various means including email attachments, network shares, or web downloads, making the vulnerability exploitable in multiple attack scenarios.
The security implications of this vulnerability are compounded by the fact that it operates at the system level without requiring elevated privileges, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may have varying levels of access. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to bypass traditional security controls by placing malicious dll files in locations where legitimate users might expect to find project files. The attack pattern follows typical dll hijacking methodologies that are documented in various threat intelligence reports and aligns with techniques categorized under the attack tactic of privilege escalation in the ATT&CK framework. Organizations using Adobe On Location CS4 are particularly vulnerable, as this version was widely deployed in creative workflows and media production environments where project files are frequently shared and opened by multiple users.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through patching and application hardening measures. Adobe released updates addressing this specific vulnerability, and organizations should prioritize applying these security patches to prevent exploitation. Additional mitigations include implementing application whitelisting policies, restricting write access to directories containing OLPROJ files, and monitoring for suspicious dll file creation or modification in user directories. System administrators should also consider implementing least privilege principles to limit the impact of potential exploitation and employ endpoint detection and response solutions to identify anomalous dll loading behavior. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper dll loading mechanisms, as highlighted in industry standards such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for software development security.