CVE-2010-3163 in Grani
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Fenrir Sleipnir before 2.9.5 and Grani before 4.4 allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse DLL in the current working directory.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/08/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2010-3163 represents a classic untrusted search path issue that has significant implications for software security and privilege escalation. This flaw affects the Fenrir Sleipnir browser and its associated Grani component, specifically versions prior to 2.9.5 and 4.4 respectively. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of dynamic link library loading mechanisms where the software fails to validate or sanitize the search path used to locate required DLL files. This weakness creates an opportunity for local attackers to execute malicious code with elevated privileges by placing a specially crafted Trojan horse DLL in the current working directory from which the vulnerable application is launched.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability relies on the principle of dynamic link library injection and the trust model employed by the affected software. When Fenrir Sleipnir or Grani attempts to load required DLL components, it searches through a predefined list of directories including the current working directory without proper validation. This behavior aligns with CWE-426, which describes untrusted search path vulnerabilities where applications search for libraries in directories that may be manipulated by attackers. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows local users to place malicious DLL files in the same directory as the vulnerable executable, bypassing normal security mechanisms that would otherwise prevent such unauthorized code execution.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant risk for systems where local user access is possible, as it provides a straightforward path to privilege escalation. Attackers can exploit this by simply placing a malicious DLL with the same name as a legitimate library that the vulnerable software attempts to load. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to potential full system compromise, especially when the vulnerable applications run with elevated privileges or have access to sensitive system resources. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper library loading practices and the principle of least privilege in software design, as highlighted by ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers privilege escalation through dynamic link library loading.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-3163 primarily focus on updating to patched versions of the affected software, which typically involve implementing proper DLL loading mechanisms that do not trust the current working directory or using absolute paths for library loading. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security measures such as application whitelisting, restricting write permissions in application directories, and monitoring for suspicious DLL loading activities. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices, particularly around library loading and search path handling, which are fundamental aspects of software security that directly impact system integrity and user safety.