CVE-2010-5274 in PKZIP
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in PKZIP before 12.50.0014 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 .zip file. NOTE: some of these details are obtained from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/21/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2010-5274 represents a classic untrusted search path issue affecting PKZIP software versions prior to 12.50.0014. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-427, which specifically addresses uncontrolled search path elements, and is closely related to CWE-428, which deals with unquoted search paths. The flaw manifests when the application fails to properly validate the source of dynamic link library files, creating an opportunity for privilege escalation through malicious file placement.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the way PKZIP handles dynamic library loading during zip file operations. When a user opens a .zip file in a directory containing a malicious dwmapi.dll file, the application loads the malicious library instead of the legitimate system library. This occurs because PKZIP searches the current working directory before checking system directories, allowing an attacker to place a Trojan horse file in the same directory as the target zip file. The dwmapi.dll file is particularly effective because it is a legitimate Windows system component that is commonly present on Windows systems, making the malicious file less suspicious to users and security systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential system compromise and data theft. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially gaining access to sensitive system resources or information stored in the compromised system. The attack vector is particularly insidious because it requires minimal user interaction beyond opening a seemingly benign zip file, making it an effective social engineering target. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, and T1068, which addresses exploit for privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability involve multiple layers of defense. The most direct approach is updating PKZIP to version 12.50.0014 or later, which addresses the untrusted search path issue by implementing proper library loading mechanisms. System administrators should also implement directory permissions controls to prevent unauthorized users from placing malicious files in directories containing zip files. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies can prevent execution of unauthorized dynamic link libraries. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper library loading procedures, as outlined in various security frameworks including the OWASP Top 10 and NIST Cybersecurity Framework. Organizations should also consider implementing monitoring solutions to detect unusual library loading patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts.