CVE-2010-5197 in Pixia
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Pixia 4.70j allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse wintab32.dll file in the current working directory, as demonstrated by a directory that contains a .pxa file. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/20/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-5197 represents a classic untrusted search path issue affecting Pixia 4.70j software, which falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-426. This vulnerability exploits the software's improper handling of dynamic library loading mechanisms, creating a privilege escalation pathway for local attackers. The flaw specifically manifests when the application searches for required system libraries in predictable locations without proper validation of the library sources. In this case, the targeted component is the wintab32.dll file, which serves as a critical system interface for tablet input devices and is commonly used by graphics and image editing applications.
The technical exploitation occurs through a Trojan horse attack vector where a malicious actor places a crafted wintab32.dll file in the current working directory of the Pixia application. When the application attempts to load this library during normal operation, particularly when processing .pxa files which are Pixia's native project files, the system loads the malicious DLL instead of the legitimate system library. This behavior directly violates the principle of least privilege and demonstrates a critical flaw in the application's library resolution process. The vulnerability operates at the operating system level where the dynamic linker searches for libraries in a predetermined order, typically starting with the current working directory before checking system directories.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential system compromise and data integrity violations. Local users who can manipulate the application's working directory gain the ability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the running Pixia process, which could potentially be elevated if the application runs with administrative rights. This vulnerability aligns with the ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation tactics, specifically targeting the technique of DLL hijacking. The attack is particularly concerning because it requires minimal user interaction beyond placing a malicious file in a specific location, making it an attractive vector for both casual attackers and more sophisticated threat actors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-5197 should focus on implementing proper library loading practices and strengthening the application's security posture. Organizations should ensure that Pixia 4.70j is updated to a patched version that properly validates library sources or employs secure coding practices such as specifying full paths for library loading. System administrators should implement directory permissions controls to prevent unauthorized modifications to application directories and consider using application whitelisting solutions to restrict execution of unauthorized DLL files. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by running the application with minimal required permissions, and regular security audits should verify that no malicious DLL files exist in application working directories. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of secure development practices and the need for applications to avoid relying on predictable search paths that could be manipulated by local users.