CVE-2010-5262 in Multimedia Conversion Library
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple untrusted search path vulnerabilities in libmcl-5.4.0.dll in Gromada Multimedia Conversion Library 5.4.0 allow local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse (1) libgif-1.1.0.dll or (2) libhav-1.0.1.dll file in the current working directory. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/30/2018
The vulnerability described in CVE-2010-5262 represents a critical privilege escalation issue within the Gromada Multimedia Conversion Library version 5.4.0, specifically affecting the libmcl-5.4.0.dll component. This flaw demonstrates a classic untrusted search path vulnerability that exploits the way applications resolve dynamic library dependencies. The vulnerability occurs when the multimedia conversion library loads dependent DLL files without proper validation of their source or location, creating an exploitable condition where malicious actors can place specially crafted DLL files in the current working directory to gain elevated privileges. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-426, which specifically addresses the dangerous use of untrusted search paths, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers the exploitation of privilege escalation vulnerabilities.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability relies on the Windows dynamic link library loading mechanism and the order in which the operating system searches for required DLL files. When libmcl-5.4.0.dll attempts to load either libgif-1.1.0.dll or libhav-1.0.1.dll, it follows the standard Windows search order which includes the current working directory before checking system directories. This search order behavior creates an opportunity for local attackers to place malicious DLL files with the same names in the directory where the vulnerable application executes, causing the system to load the attacker-controlled code instead of the legitimate library. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges to execute, as local users can simply place the malicious DLL files in the working directory and then execute the vulnerable application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to potentially enable full system compromise. Once a local attacker successfully places a malicious DLL in the working directory and executes the vulnerable application, they can execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the target user, which may include elevated system access. The vulnerability affects any user who runs applications that depend on the Gromada Multimedia Conversion Library, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments or when the vulnerable applications are executed with administrative privileges. This issue also demonstrates the broader problem of legacy software maintaining insecure library loading practices, where modern security considerations have not been properly implemented in older codebases.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-5262 require both immediate and long-term approaches to address the root cause of the vulnerability. The most effective immediate solution involves patching or updating to a newer version of the Gromada Multimedia Conversion Library that properly implements secure library loading practices, such as using LoadLibraryEx with the LOAD_WITH_ALTERED_SEARCH_PATH flag or implementing explicit DLL search path controls. Organizations should also implement proper application whitelisting policies to prevent unauthorized DLL files from executing in critical directories. System administrators should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all applications using the vulnerable library and ensure that the current working directory is not writable by untrusted users. Additionally, implementing security controls such as Windows Defender Application Control or similar technologies can prevent execution of unauthorized DLL files, while regular security audits should verify that no vulnerable applications remain in production environments. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to security standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Practices and NIST guidelines for preventing library loading vulnerabilities.