CVE-2010-5273 in DiffDog 2011
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Altova DiffDog 2011 Enterprise Edition SP1 allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse dwmapi.dll file in the current working directory, as demonstrated by a directory that contains a .dbdif file. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/26/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-5273 represents an untrusted search path issue affecting Altova DiffDog 2011 Enterprise Edition SP1, classified under CWE-427 as an uncontrolled search path and CWE-276 as incorrect permissions. This flaw manifests when the application processes .dbdif files which contain DiffDog project data, creating a scenario where malicious actors can exploit the application's loading behavior to execute unauthorized code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate and sanitize the search path used when loading dynamic link libraries, specifically targeting the dwmapi.dll component that is critical for Windows display management functions.
The technical exploitation occurs through a Trojan horse attack vector where a local attacker places a malicious dwmapi.dll file in the same directory as a .dbdif project file. When DiffDog processes this project file, it loads the dwmapi.dll from the current working directory without proper validation, allowing the attacker's malicious code to execute with the privileges of the user running DiffDog. This represents a classic privilege escalation vulnerability that can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code on the target system, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack requires local access to the system and knowledge of the application's file processing behavior, making it particularly concerning for environments where users may not be security-aware.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, and potentially move laterally within a network environment. The vulnerability affects enterprise users who may be running the software with elevated privileges, and the attack vector is particularly dangerous because it leverages legitimate application functionality to deliver malicious payloads. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1548.001 for abuse of privileges, as it allows for privilege escalation through legitimate system interfaces.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include applying the vendor-provided patches or updates that address the untrusted search path issue, implementing strict file access controls and permissions on directories containing DiffDog project files, and employing application whitelisting solutions to prevent unauthorized DLL loading. System administrators should also consider implementing monitoring for suspicious file creation patterns and DLL loading activities, particularly in directories containing project files. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation, particularly when handling file operations and dynamic library loading. Organizations should conduct regular security assessments of third-party software and maintain up-to-date patch management procedures to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in their environments.