CVE-2010-5230 in MicroStation
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple untrusted search path vulnerabilities in MicroStation 7.1 allow local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse (1) mptools.dll, (2) baseman.dll, (3) wintab32.dll, or (4) wintab.dll file in the current working directory, as demonstrated by a directory that contains a .hln or .rdl 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-2010-5230 represents a critical privilege escalation issue within MicroStation 7.1, a computer-aided design software widely used in engineering and construction industries. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of dynamic library loading mechanisms, specifically targeting the software's search path resolution process. The flaw allows local attackers to execute malicious code with elevated privileges by leveraging the software's tendency to load libraries from the current working directory before checking system directories. This behavior creates a dangerous attack surface where adversaries can place malicious DLL files in directories where MicroStation executes, effectively bypassing normal security controls and gaining unauthorized access to system resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves four specific DLL files that serve as attack vectors: mptools.dll, baseman.dll, wintab32.dll, and wintab.dll. These libraries are loaded by MicroStation during normal operation, and when the application processes certain file types such as .hln or .rdl files, it traverses the current working directory for these dependencies. This untrusted search path behavior directly maps to CWE-427, which describes uncontrolled search path dependencies where applications use predictable search paths that can be manipulated by attackers. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the system level, allowing privilege escalation from standard user accounts to higher privilege levels, potentially enabling full system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it can be exploited in various real-world scenarios within enterprise environments. Attackers could place malicious DLL files in shared directories or user workspaces where MicroStation is executed, particularly in environments where users have access to the software and its working directories. The vulnerability affects organizations using MicroStation 7.1 across multiple sectors including architecture, engineering, and construction, where the software is frequently used for sensitive design work. This creates potential for data theft, system compromise, and unauthorized access to proprietary design information, especially when users work in shared or unsecured environments. The attack can be automated and does not require specialized knowledge to execute, making it particularly dangerous in environments with multiple users or shared workspaces.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on addressing the core search path issues within MicroStation's library loading mechanism. Organizations should implement strict directory permissions and ensure that the current working directory is not writable by untrusted users. The recommended approach includes applying vendor patches when available, implementing application whitelisting policies, and configuring the software to use absolute paths for library loading rather than relying on the default search order. Additionally, system administrators should monitor for suspicious DLL file placements and implement security controls such as Windows Defender Application Control or similar technologies to prevent unauthorized code execution. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers privilege escalation through local exploits, and demonstrates the importance of proper privilege separation and secure coding practices in preventing such attacks. Organizations should also consider implementing least privilege principles and regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other software applications.