CVE-2012-4756 in LabelPrint
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple untrusted search path vulnerabilities in CyberLink LabelPrint 2.5.3602 allow local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse (1) mfc71loc.dll or (2) mfc71enu.dll file in the current working directory, as demonstrated by a directory that contains a .lpp 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 • 02/20/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-4756 represents a critical untrusted search path issue affecting CyberLink LabelPrint version 2.5.3602. This flaw stems from the application's improper handling of dynamic library loading mechanisms, creating a privilege escalation vector through malicious DLL injection techniques. The vulnerability manifests when the application attempts to load Microsoft Foundation Class libraries mfc71loc.dll and mfc71enu.dll, which are essential components for the software's operation. When these libraries are present in the current working directory, the application loads them without proper validation, allowing local attackers to place malicious versions of these DLL files in strategic locations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic Trojan horse attack pattern where an attacker places specially crafted malicious DLL files in the same directory as a legitimate .lpp file. This approach leverages the Windows DLL search order mechanism, which prioritizes the current working directory before checking system directories. The vulnerability falls under CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element, a well-documented weakness that enables attackers to manipulate the execution flow of applications by placing malicious code in locations where the software expects to find legitimate libraries. The attack requires local system access and does not involve network-based exploitation, making it a local privilege escalation vulnerability.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant security risks to systems running affected versions of CyberLink LabelPrint. Local users who can write to directories containing .lpp files can execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the targeted application, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The impact extends beyond immediate privilege escalation as attackers can leverage this initial foothold to establish persistent access, escalate privileges further, or move laterally within the network. The vulnerability's exploitation is particularly concerning because it requires minimal user interaction beyond creating or modifying files in specific locations, making it a stealthy attack vector that could go undetected for extended periods.
The security implications of CVE-2012-4756 align with several ATT&CK tactics including privilege escalation and persistence mechanisms. Attackers can use this vulnerability to establish a backdoor presence on systems, potentially maintaining access across reboots or system updates. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper DLL loading practices and the principle of least privilege in application design. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management processes to address this vulnerability, as the affected software version represents a legacy application that may not receive further security updates. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent unauthorized DLL loading and monitor for suspicious file creation patterns in directories where LabelPrint applications operate. The vulnerability underscores the critical need for secure coding practices and proper library loading mechanisms that validate file integrity and source before execution.