CVE-2010-4833 in GTK+
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in modules/engines/ms-windows/xp_theme.c in GTK+ before 2.24.0 allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse uxtheme.dll file in the current working directory, a different vulnerability than CVE-2010-4831.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/18/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2010-4833 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within the GTK+ graphical user interface library, specifically affecting versions prior to 2.24.0. This flaw exists in the Windows theme engine module located at modules/engines/ms-windows/xp_theme.c, where the application fails to properly validate the source of dynamic library loading operations. The vulnerability enables local attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges by placing a malicious uxtheme.dll file in the current working directory, exploiting the predictable library loading behavior of the affected GTK+ components. This represents a classic privilege escalation vector that leverages the operating system's dynamic link library search order mechanism.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of dynamic library loading within the Windows theme engine subsystem of GTK+. When the application attempts to load the uxtheme.dll library for theme rendering purposes, it follows a search path that includes the current working directory before checking system directories. This ordering allows an attacker to place a malicious version of uxtheme.dll in the same directory as the target application, causing the legitimate system library to be bypassed and the malicious version to be loaded instead. The flaw manifests as a failure to implement proper library validation or to enforce secure library loading practices, which is classified under CWE-426 as an Untrusted Search Path vulnerability. This weakness directly enables attackers to manipulate the execution flow of applications through library substitution attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-4833 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential system compromise and persistent access capabilities. Local users who can write to the application's working directory can effectively gain elevated privileges without requiring additional attack vectors or complex exploitation techniques. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the system level where the application is executing with elevated permissions, potentially allowing attackers to modify system files, install backdoors, or escalate to full administrative control. The attack requires only local access and the ability to write files to the target directory, making it a low-effort, high-impact vector for privilege escalation that aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 for bypassing user account control and privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-4833 focus primarily on updating to GTK+ version 2.24.0 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the untrusted search path vulnerability. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all systems running GTK+ applications are updated to secure versions. Additionally, system administrators can employ directory permissions controls to limit write access to application working directories and implement application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized DLL loading. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices, particularly in dynamic library loading operations, and aligns with security frameworks that emphasize the principle of least privilege and secure library resolution. Network segmentation and monitoring for suspicious file creation activities in application directories can provide additional defense-in-depth measures against exploitation attempts.