CVE-2010-3157 in XacRett
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in XacRett before 50 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code via a Trojan horse executable file, related to the explorer.exe filename and use of Windows Explorer.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/07/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3157 represents a critical untrusted search path issue affecting XacRett versions prior to 50. This flaw resides in the Windows Explorer component and specifically targets the explorer.exe filename handling mechanism. The vulnerability stems from improper validation of executable file paths during the loading process, creating an environment where malicious actors can exploit the system's trust in conventional file locations. The root cause aligns with CWE-428, which addresses untrusted search path vulnerabilities where software applications fail to properly validate the source of executable files. Attackers can leverage this weakness by placing malicious Trojan horse executable files in directories that Windows Explorer searches automatically, bypassing normal security controls.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a carefully crafted attack vector involving directory traversal and path manipulation. When Windows Explorer processes certain file operations, it follows a predetermined search order that includes directories not properly validated for malicious content. The vulnerability specifically targets the explorer.exe filename handling, which is a core component of the Windows graphical user interface responsible for file management and navigation. Attackers can place a malicious executable with the same name as a legitimate file in a directory that Windows Explorer will prioritize during the search process, effectively hijacking the execution flow. This technique leverages the principle of least privilege violation and demonstrates how seemingly benign file operations can be exploited to gain unauthorized code execution. The attack requires minimal user interaction and can be automated through social engineering or direct system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-3157 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold within the compromised system. Once successfully exploited, the malicious code can establish backdoors, escalate privileges, or deploy additional malware components without requiring further user interaction. The vulnerability affects Windows systems that rely on the affected XacRett component, potentially compromising entire network segments if the attack originates from a single compromised endpoint. The attack surface is broad since explorer.exe is frequently used during normal system operations, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where user privileges may be elevated. This vulnerability directly relates to ATT&CK technique T1059.001, which covers command and script interpreter usage, and T1068, which addresses local privilege escalation. The impact is amplified when considering that attackers can leverage this vulnerability to bypass security controls such as application whitelisting or antivirus solutions that may not detect the initial compromise.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-3157 should focus on both immediate patching and operational security improvements. The primary recommendation involves updating to XacRett version 50 or later, which contains the necessary fixes to address the untrusted search path vulnerability. Organizations should implement strict file system permissions and ensure that directory search paths are properly validated before executing any code. Security configurations should enforce the principle of least privilege for system components that interact with file paths. Network segmentation and monitoring solutions should be deployed to detect anomalous file execution patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, regular security assessments should include vulnerability scanning for similar untrusted search path issues across all system components. The mitigation approach should align with NIST SP 800-53 security controls, particularly those addressing system and information integrity, to prevent unauthorized code execution and maintain system availability. Organizations must also consider implementing behavioral monitoring solutions that can detect suspicious file operations involving explorer.exe and related Windows components.