CVE-2010-5270 in Device Central CS4
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple untrusted search path vulnerabilities in Adobe Device Central CS4 2.0.0 0476 allow local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse (1) ibfs32.dll or (2) amt_cdb.dll file in the current working directory, as demonstrated by a directory that contains a .adcp file. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/23/2018
Adobe Device Central CS4 version 2.0.0 0476 contains multiple untrusted search path vulnerabilities that create opportunities for privilege escalation through malicious dynamic link library files. These vulnerabilities arise from the application's failure to properly validate file paths when loading dynamic libraries, specifically allowing local attackers to place malicious files named ibfs32.dll or amt_cdb.dll in the current working directory. The attack vector is demonstrated through directories containing .adcp files, which trigger the vulnerable application to load these malicious libraries from the current working directory rather than from the intended secure locations. This behavior represents a classic privilege escalation vulnerability where a local user can elevate their privileges by manipulating the application's library loading sequence.
The technical flaw stems from improper handling of dynamic library loading mechanisms within Adobe Device Central, creating a path traversal vulnerability that aligns with CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element. When the application processes .adcp files, it does not validate or sanitize the current working directory before attempting to load required dynamic libraries. This creates an environment where attacker-controlled libraries can be loaded with the privileges of the victim user, potentially leading to privilege escalation. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it does not require remote exploitation or network access, making it a local privilege escalation vector that can be exploited by any user with access to the system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it can enable attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, modify system files, or escalate privileges to SYSTEM level access depending on the target system configuration. The vulnerability affects the application's security model by undermining the principle of least privilege, as legitimate application functionality becomes compromised by malicious code injection. This type of vulnerability can be particularly devastating in enterprise environments where Adobe Device Central might be used with elevated privileges or in automated workflows.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of Adobe Device Central CS4 to version 2.0.0 0477 or later, which addresses the untrusted search path issues. System administrators should implement strict file permissions and access controls to prevent unauthorized users from placing malicious files in directories where Adobe Device Central might be executed. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for suspicious library loading behavior can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider disabling the processing of .adcp files in environments where they are not required, as this eliminates the attack surface entirely. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper library loading practices and highlights the need for applications to validate all file paths and avoid loading libraries from untrusted locations, which is consistent with security best practices outlined in the ATT&CK framework under privilege escalation techniques.