CVE-2010-3158 in Lhaplus
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Lhaplus before 1.58 allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse executable file in the current working directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/07/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3158 represents a classic untrusted search path issue affecting the Lhaplus software version 1.57 and earlier. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-426 category known as "Untrusted Search Path" which occurs when a program searches for executable files or libraries in directories that can be manipulated by attackers. The flaw exists in how Lhaplus handles file resolution during its execution process, particularly when searching for dependent modules or executables within the current working directory.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires local user access and leverages the principle of least privilege by creating a malicious Trojan horse executable file in the current working directory where Lhaplus is executed. When the vulnerable application attempts to locate and execute a required component, it inadvertently loads and executes the attacker-controlled malicious file instead of the legitimate system file. This occurs because the application's search path prioritizes the current working directory over system paths, creating an opportunity for privilege escalation. The vulnerability specifically targets the dynamic linking mechanism where applications load shared libraries or executables without proper path validation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the target user or system account running Lhaplus. This can lead to complete system compromise if the application runs with elevated privileges, allowing attackers to install backdoors, modify system files, or exfiltrate sensitive data. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges and can be executed through social engineering or automated scripts that place malicious files in the working directory. The vulnerability persists across multiple operating system environments where Lhaplus is deployed, making it a widespread concern for system administrators managing legacy software installations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-3158 should prioritize immediate software updates to version 1.58 or later where the vulnerability has been patched. System administrators should implement proper file permissions and directory access controls to prevent unauthorized modifications to application directories. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that Lhaplus applications run with minimal required permissions and that current working directories are not included in executable search paths. Additional protective measures include implementing application whitelisting solutions, monitoring for suspicious file creation patterns, and conducting regular security audits of system directories. Organizations should also consider deploying endpoint protection solutions that can detect and prevent the execution of unauthorized binaries in sensitive directories. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers "Local Privilege Escalation" and demonstrates how untrusted search path vulnerabilities can be exploited to achieve elevated system access.