CVE-2010-5215 in SWiSH Max3
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple untrusted search path vulnerabilities in SWiSH Max3 3.0 2009.11.30 allow local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse (1) dwmapi.dll or (2) SWiSHmax3res.dll file in the current working directory, as demonstrated by a directory that contains a .swi file. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/15/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-5215 represents a critical privilege escalation issue within SWiSH Max3 version 3.0 2009.11.30, a multimedia authoring tool that was widely used for creating interactive web content. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of dynamic library loading mechanisms, specifically targeting the Windows dynamic link library (DLL) search order. The flaw allows local attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges by manipulating the software's library loading behavior through carefully crafted Trojan horse files placed in the current working directory during software execution. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it leverages the inherent trust relationships within Windows application execution environments, where the operating system searches for required DLL files in a specific order that can be exploited by malicious actors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability relies on the Windows DLL search order exploitation technique, which is categorized under CWE-426 as "Untrusted Search Path" and falls within the broader ATT&CK framework as a privilege escalation technique. When SWiSH Max3 processes a .swi file, it loads required dynamic libraries from the current working directory before checking system directories, creating an opportunity for attackers to place malicious versions of legitimate DLLs such as dwmapi.dll or SWiSHmax3res.dll. These malicious files, when loaded by the application, execute with the privileges of the user running SWiSH Max3, potentially enabling attackers to gain elevated system access. The vulnerability specifically targets the application's failure to properly validate or restrict the paths from which it loads dynamic libraries, creating a classic path traversal and privilege escalation vector.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple local privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with a persistent mechanism to establish footholds within compromised systems. Since SWiSH Max3 was commonly installed on user workstations and development environments, attackers could exploit this vulnerability to gain elevated privileges without requiring external network access or complex attack chains. The vulnerability affects systems where users have the ability to create or modify files in directories where SWiSH Max3 is executed, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments or shared workstations. The attack vector is relatively simple to execute, requiring only the placement of malicious DLL files in the same directory as the target .swi file, which can be accomplished through various social engineering techniques or by compromising user accounts with write permissions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-5215 should focus on addressing the root cause through proper application design and system hardening measures. Organizations should implement application whitelisting policies to prevent unauthorized DLL loading, enforce strict directory permissions, and ensure that applications perform secure library loading by specifying full paths or using Windows' Safe DLL Search Mode. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to Microsoft's security guidelines for DLL loading, particularly in environments where legacy applications are still in use. Additionally, regular security assessments should identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other software applications, as this type of untrusted search path vulnerability remains a common weakness in Windows application development. The vulnerability also underscores the need for regular software updates and patches, as SWiSH Max3 has not received security updates since its initial release, making it a prime target for exploitation in legacy environments.