CVE-2011-5152 in Photo Editor 2008
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple untrusted search path vulnerabilities in ACDSee Photo Editor 2008 5.x build 291 allow local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse (1) Wintab32.dll or (2) CV11-DialogEditor.dll file in the current working directory, as demonstrated by a directory that contains a .apd file. 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 • 12/13/2021
The vulnerability CVE-2011-5152 represents a critical untrusted search path issue affecting ACDSee Photo Editor 2008 version 5.x build 291, which falls under the broader category of privilege escalation vulnerabilities. This flaw exploits the software's improper handling of dynamic library loading mechanisms, creating a pathway for local attackers to execute malicious code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the application attempts to load two critical dynamic link libraries Wintab32.dll and CV11-DialogEditor.dll from the current working directory without proper validation or path sanitization, making it susceptible to Trojan horse attacks where malicious files are placed in the application's execution path.
This security weakness directly correlates to CWE-426, which describes the dangerous use of untrusted search paths that can lead to privilege escalation attacks. The vulnerability operates through a classic attack vector where an attacker places malicious DLL files with the same names as legitimate system libraries in the directory where ACDSee Photo Editor is executed. When the application attempts to load these libraries, it inadvertently loads the attacker-controlled malicious code instead of the legitimate system components. The attack is particularly effective because the application's search path prioritizes the current working directory, which is often writable by local users, creating a predictable and exploitable condition.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the ability to escalate privileges to higher security levels within the compromised system. This privilege escalation capability allows malicious actors to perform actions such as installing additional malware, modifying system files, accessing sensitive data, or establishing persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where users may have local access to systems running this vulnerable software, as it could enable lateral movement and further compromise of network resources. The attack requires minimal sophistication and can be executed through simple file placement, making it an attractive target for both malicious actors and automated exploit frameworks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper DLL loading practices and privilege separation mechanisms. Organizations should immediately apply vendor patches or updates if available, as this vulnerability was likely addressed in subsequent releases. System administrators should consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict which executables can run in specific directories, particularly those where vulnerable applications operate. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that applications run with minimal required permissions and that directory permissions are carefully controlled. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file placement activities in application directories, and regular security audits should verify that no malicious DLL files exist in the search paths of vulnerable applications. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper library loading mechanisms in preventing privilege escalation attacks.