CVE-2010-3160 in Archive Decoder
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Archive Decoder 1.23 and earlier 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 • 09/28/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3160 represents a classic untrusted search path issue within the Archive Decoder software version 1.23 and earlier. This flaw resides in the software's handling of file paths during archive extraction processes, creating a significant security risk for local users who may inadvertently execute malicious code. The vulnerability specifically affects systems where the Archive Decoder application is executed from a directory containing malicious files, allowing attackers to place Trojan horse executables in the current working directory to exploit the system.
This security weakness stems from the application's failure to properly validate or sanitize the search path used during file operations. When Archive Decoder processes archive files, it typically searches for required libraries or components in the current working directory before checking system paths. This behavior creates an attack surface where local users can manipulate the execution environment by placing malicious executables in directories that the application searches first. The vulnerability falls under CWE-428, which specifically addresses the issue of untrusted search path vulnerabilities, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers privilege escalation through local exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple local privilege escalation to potentially enable more sophisticated attack vectors. An attacker who gains access to a system where Archive Decoder is installed and regularly used can place a malicious executable named identically to a legitimate library or component that the decoder expects to find. When the application executes and searches for these components, it inadvertently loads and executes the malicious file with the privileges of the user running the application. This can lead to unauthorized system access, data exfiltration, or further compromise of the affected system.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-3160 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves updating to a patched version of Archive Decoder that properly implements secure path resolution techniques. Organizations should also implement strict access controls and privilege separation to limit the impact of potential exploitation. Additionally, security awareness training for users can help prevent accidental execution of malicious files from untrusted directories. System administrators should consider implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for suspicious file creation patterns in directories where Archive Decoder is commonly executed. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in preventing path traversal and search path manipulation attacks that can lead to privilege escalation and system compromise.