CVE-2010-5225 in Babylon
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Babylon 8.1.0 r16 allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse BESExtension.dll file in the current working directory, as demonstrated by a directory that contains a .bgl file. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/20/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-5225 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within Babylon 8.1.0 r16 software, classified under CWE-427 Untrusted Search Path. This flaw enables local attackers to elevate privileges through a carefully crafted Trojan horse attack involving the BESExtension.dll file. The vulnerability exploits the software's failure to properly validate the source of dynamically loaded libraries, creating an opportunity for malicious code execution with elevated privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the Babylon software processes .bgl files, which are dictionary or translation files used by the application. During this processing, the software searches for required extension libraries in the current working directory without proper validation of the library's authenticity or source. When an attacker places a malicious BESExtension.dll file in the same directory as a targeted .bgl file, the legitimate application loads this malicious library instead of the genuine one, effectively executing attacker-controlled code with the privileges of the running process.
This vulnerability operates within the broader context of privilege escalation attacks and falls under ATT&CK technique T1068 Privilege Escalation through the use of trusted program paths. The attack vector specifically targets the software's dynamic loading mechanism, where the application's search path includes the current working directory, creating an exploitable condition. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires no special permissions to exploit, as the malicious DLL is placed in the same directory as the target file, making it appear as a legitimate component of the software's operation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it allows for complete system compromise when the Babylon application runs with elevated privileges. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, modify system files, or establish persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability's stealth nature makes detection difficult since the malicious activity occurs within legitimate software processes, potentially evading traditional security controls that monitor for suspicious file operations or network connections.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-5225 should focus on addressing the root cause through proper library loading practices. Software developers should implement secure coding practices that avoid searching in the current working directory for critical libraries, instead using absolute paths or validating library sources through digital signatures. System administrators should ensure that the Babylon application runs with minimal required privileges and that the current working directory is not writable by unprivileged users. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies can prevent the execution of unauthorized DLL files, while regular security audits should verify that no malicious libraries exist in application directories. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of keeping software updated, as this issue was resolved in subsequent versions of the Babylon software through proper implementation of secure library loading mechanisms.