CVE-2010-5210 in Sorax Reader
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Sorax Reader 2.0.3129.70 allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse dwmapi.dll file in the current working directory, as demonstrated by a directory that contains a .pdf file. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/13/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-5210 represents a critical untrusted search path issue affecting Sorax Reader version 2.0.3129.70. This flaw resides in the application's dynamic link library (dll) loading mechanism, where the software fails to properly validate the source of dynamically loaded components. The vulnerability stems from the application's insecure practice of searching for required dll files in the current working directory before checking system directories, creating an exploitable path where malicious actors can place crafted dll files to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.
This security weakness operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) classification of CWE-427, which specifically addresses Uncontrolled Search Path Elements. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the trust model inherent in Windows application loading mechanisms, where applications automatically load dll files from their execution directory without proper verification of their authenticity or origin. When a user opens a pdf file in the vulnerable Sorax Reader, the application attempts to load the dwmapi.dll file from the current working directory, which could contain a malicious Trojan horse version of the legitimate system dll.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential full system compromise. Attackers can exploit this weakness by placing a malicious dwmapi.dll file in the same directory as a targeted pdf document, effectively creating a Trojan horse scenario where legitimate application functionality is hijacked. This type of attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1546.009 for Server Software Component, as it leverages legitimate system components to execute malicious code. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where users may open untrusted pdf documents from email attachments or shared network drives.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-5210 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. Organizations must first ensure that all affected systems have been updated to the latest version of Sorax Reader that addresses this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing proper privilege separation and application whitelisting can prevent unauthorized dll loading operations. System administrators should consider deploying security tools that monitor for suspicious dll loading activities and establish strict file permission controls on directories where pdf documents are processed. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper dll loading mechanisms that prioritize system directories over user-controlled locations, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and Microsoft Security Development Lifecycle guidelines.