CVE-2010-5239 in DAEMON Tools
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in DAEMON Tools Lite 4.35.6.0091 and Pro Standard 4.36.0309.0160 allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse mfc80loc.dll file in the current working directory, as demonstrated by a directory that contains a .mds file. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/30/2018
This vulnerability represents a classic untrusted search path issue that exploits how applications resolve library dependencies in the DAEMON Tools Lite software suite. The flaw exists in both DAEMON Tools Lite version 4.35.6.0091 and Pro Standard version 4.36.0309.0160.0160, where the software fails to properly validate the source of dynamic link library files during the execution process. When a user opens a .mds file, the application searches for required libraries in the current working directory before checking system paths, creating an exploitable condition where malicious actors can place a crafted mfc80loc.dll file in the same directory as the targeted .mds file.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper library loading behavior that violates fundamental security principles. According to CWE-427, this represents an uncontrolled search path element vulnerability where the application's search path includes the current working directory without proper validation. The vulnerability specifically targets the mfc80loc.dll file which is part of Microsoft's Visual C++ runtime libraries, making it particularly dangerous as legitimate system components can be replaced with malicious counterparts. Attackers can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running DAEMON Tools, potentially leading to privilege escalation or system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple local privilege escalation, as it creates a persistent attack vector that can be exploited through social engineering or automated file delivery methods. A successful exploitation allows attackers to inject malicious code into the DAEMON Tools execution environment, potentially enabling them to access sensitive data, modify system configurations, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires minimal user interaction beyond opening a .mds file, making it suitable for targeted attacks or mass deployment scenarios. According to ATT&CK framework tactic TA0004 (Privilege Escalation), this vulnerability could be leveraged to gain higher privileges through legitimate system tools, while also supporting tactic TA0002 (Execution) through the use of malicious DLL injection techniques.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening. The most effective immediate solution involves updating to patched versions of DAEMON Tools or implementing proper file validation mechanisms that prevent loading of untrusted DLL files from the current working directory. System administrators should implement application whitelisting policies that restrict which DLL files can be loaded by DAEMON Tools processes. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of opening untrusted .mds files from unknown sources, and organizations should consider implementing security controls such as Windows Defender Application Control or similar technologies to prevent unauthorized DLL loading. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper library loading mechanisms, particularly in applications that handle user-supplied files and require dynamic library resolution.