CVE-2010-5255 in UltraISO
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in UltraISO 9.3.6.2750 allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse daemon.dll file in the current working directory, as demonstrated by a directory that contains a .iso file. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/20/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-5255 represents a critical untrusted search path issue affecting UltraISO version 9.3.6.2750, which falls under the broader category of insecure library loading practices. This flaw demonstrates a classic privilege escalation vector that exploits the software's failure to properly validate the source and integrity of dynamically loaded modules. The vulnerability specifically manifests when UltraISO processes ISO files and encounters a malicious daemon.dll file placed in the current working directory, allowing local attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The attack scenario is particularly concerning because it leverages the trust model inherent in the application's module loading mechanism, where the software assumes that any required dynamic link library present in the working directory is legitimate and safe to execute. This type of vulnerability is classified as CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element, which directly relates to the improper handling of library search paths and the lack of proper validation of module sources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the Windows dynamic loading mechanism where applications search for required DLL files in a specific order including the current working directory before examining system directories. When UltraISO processes an ISO file, it may invoke functions that trigger the loading of additional modules, and if a malicious daemon.dll exists in the same directory as the ISO file or the working directory, the system will load this malicious component instead of the legitimate one. This behavior constitutes a privilege escalation attack vector as the loaded malicious DLL can execute with the privileges of the UltraISO process, which typically runs with elevated permissions due to its role in handling disk images and system-level operations. The attack is particularly insidious because it requires no special privileges to set up the malicious DLL file in the working directory, making it accessible to any local user who can manipulate the environment where UltraISO executes. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1055 Privilege Escalation through DLL Side-Loading, where adversaries leverage legitimate system processes to load malicious code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise and data exposure. Local attackers can leverage this flaw to install persistent backdoors, steal sensitive information, or perform further attacks on the compromised system. The vulnerability affects not only individual workstations but also enterprise environments where UltraISO might be used for system deployment, software distribution, or disk image management tasks. Organizations using this software for legitimate purposes may unknowingly create attack vectors that allow adversaries to escalate privileges and gain unauthorized access to critical systems. The impact is further amplified because UltraISO is commonly used in enterprise settings for creating and managing disk images, making it a valuable target for attackers seeking to establish persistent access. The vulnerability also demonstrates the importance of proper application sandboxing and the principle of least privilege, as the application's failure to properly validate module sources creates a significant security gap that can be exploited across various operational contexts. This type of vulnerability commonly affects software that operates in environments where users may have write access to directories containing executable files, and the lack of proper validation creates opportunities for attackers to manipulate the execution flow of legitimate applications. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users share the same system or where administrative privileges are not properly managed, as it can provide a pathway for attackers to escalate their access rights and maintain persistence within the compromised system.