CVE-2010-5256 in CDisplay
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in CDisplay 1.8.1 allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse TRACE32.DLL file in the current working directory, as demonstrated by a directory that contains a .cba 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-2010-5256 represents a critical untrusted search path issue affecting CDisplay version 1.8.1, a popular e-book reader application. This flaw operates under the principle that applications may inadvertently load dynamic link libraries from untrusted directories, creating a privilege escalation vector for local attackers. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the application processes .cba files, which are compressed book archives commonly used in e-book formats. When a user opens a maliciously crafted .cba file, the application's loading mechanism attempts to locate required libraries in the current working directory, thereby creating an opportunity for attackers to place malicious files in strategic locations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic Trojan horse attack pattern where an attacker places a malicious TRACE32.DLL file in the same directory as a legitimate .cba file. This approach leverages the application's trust in the current working directory for library resolution, a common security anti-pattern that falls under CWE-426 Untrusted Search Path. The flaw demonstrates how applications fail to properly validate or sanitize the paths from which they load dynamic libraries, creating a pathway for privilege escalation attacks. When the vulnerable application executes and attempts to load the TRACE32.DLL file, the system loads the malicious version instead of the legitimate library, potentially allowing the attacker to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the target user.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential system compromise and data theft. Local attackers who can influence the contents of directories containing .cba files can effectively hijack the application's execution flow, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 for privilege escalation and T1574 for hijacking execution flow. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal user interaction beyond opening a legitimate e-book file, making it a stealthy and effective method for attackers to gain unauthorized access. The vulnerability also demonstrates the broader issue of insecure library loading practices that have been documented across numerous applications, emphasizing the need for proper security controls in software development.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing secure library loading practices and proper path validation. Software developers should employ absolute paths for library loading, implement proper directory permissions, and utilize secure coding practices that prevent loading of dynamic libraries from untrusted locations. The fix typically involves modifying the application's library search behavior to prioritize system directories and avoid loading libraries from the current working directory. Additionally, users should maintain strict control over their working directories and exercise caution when opening e-book files from untrusted sources. System administrators should consider implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for suspicious library loading activities, as outlined in various cybersecurity frameworks including NIST SP 800-171 and ISO 27001 standards for secure application development practices.