CVE-2010-3164 in Grani
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Fenrir Sleipnir 2.9.4 and earlier and Grani 4.3 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 • 02/08/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-3164 represents a critical untrusted search path issue affecting web browsers and applications from the Fenrir Software suite, specifically versions Sleipnir 2.9.4 and earlier, and Grani 4.3 and earlier. This flaw stems from improper handling of executable file paths during application initialization, creating a privilege escalation vector that can be exploited by local attackers. The vulnerability operates under the principle that applications may inadvertently execute malicious code when searching for required libraries or components, particularly when the current working directory is not properly secured or validated. The issue manifests when the application fails to validate or sanitize the search path, allowing an attacker to place a malicious executable with the same name as a legitimate component in the current working directory, thereby tricking the application into executing the malicious file instead of the intended legitimate one. This behavior aligns with CWE-426, which describes the insecure use of system calls that can lead to privilege escalation through path manipulation. The vulnerability specifically targets the application's dynamic loading mechanism, where the system searches for executable components in a predetermined order, including the current working directory. When an attacker places a Trojan horse executable in this directory, the application's loading process may inadvertently execute the malicious file with elevated privileges, potentially allowing unauthorized access to system resources or user data. The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it enables local privilege escalation without requiring network access or complex exploitation techniques. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by simply placing a malicious executable in the directory from which the vulnerable application is launched, potentially gaining access to sensitive information or system resources that would normally be restricted. This type of attack falls under the ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves the exploitation of legitimate credentials or system processes to gain elevated privileges. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the system level rather than requiring user interaction or network-based attacks, making it easier to exploit in various environments. Applications that are vulnerable to this issue typically use dynamic loading mechanisms for libraries or components without properly validating the source or path of these files. The search path issue becomes particularly dangerous when the application runs with elevated privileges, as the malicious executable would also execute with those privileges, potentially allowing attackers to perform actions such as modifying system files, accessing sensitive data, or creating backdoors. Security researchers have identified that this vulnerability is related to improper path resolution and insufficient input validation in the application's startup sequence, where the program fails to check if the executable being loaded is from a trusted source or if the file path is properly sanitized. The flaw is especially prevalent in applications that do not implement proper security measures such as using absolute paths for critical components or implementing secure loading mechanisms that prevent execution of files from untrusted locations. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper validation of file paths in application development, as it highlights how seemingly minor implementation flaws can lead to significant security implications. The issue also underscores the need for regular security assessments and updates to ensure that applications properly handle file system operations and dynamic loading processes. Organizations should consider implementing additional security controls such as file system monitoring, application whitelisting, and secure coding guidelines to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future software versions.
The vulnerability's classification under CWE-426 emphasizes the importance of avoiding insecure system call usage and the potential for attackers to manipulate the execution flow of applications through path manipulation. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the use of legitimate system processes to gain elevated access rights. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires no special privileges or network connectivity from the attacker's perspective, making it an attractive target for malicious actors seeking to exploit system weaknesses. The implementation of proper input validation and secure path resolution mechanisms is essential to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability, as it directly relates to how applications handle file system operations and dynamic loading of components. Organizations should prioritize updating vulnerable applications and implementing security measures that prevent unauthorized execution of files from untrusted directories, particularly when applications are launched with elevated privileges. The long-term solution involves establishing secure coding practices that ensure all dynamic loading operations use validated and trusted paths, thereby preventing the exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future.