CVE-2014-3910 in EmFTP
Summary
by MITRE
Emurasoft EmFTP allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse executable file that is launched during an attempt to read a similarly named file that lacks a filename extension.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/16/2019
This vulnerability exists in Emurasoft EmFTP software where local attackers can escalate privileges through a carefully crafted Trojan horse executable file. The flaw occurs during the file reading process when the application attempts to access a file without a filename extension, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to place a specially crafted executable in the same directory. The vulnerability stems from improper file path resolution and execution handling within the application's file access routines, allowing an attacker to manipulate the system's execution flow by leveraging the application's behavior when encountering files with ambiguous naming conventions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-78 OS Command Injection patterns, where the application fails to properly validate file paths and execute commands with elevated privileges. When EmFTP attempts to read a file without an extension, it may inadvertently execute a malicious executable with the same base name but with a different extension, such as .exe or .bat, thereby gaining unauthorized system access. This behavior represents a classic privilege escalation vector that operates under the principle of executable file name collision and path resolution manipulation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows local users to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the EmFTP application process, which may run with elevated permissions depending on the system configuration. Attackers can leverage this flaw to install malware, modify system files, or establish persistent backdoors within the target environment. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal user interaction and can be exploited through simple file placement in the application's working directory. This makes it an attractive target for both casual attackers and more sophisticated threat actors seeking to establish footholds within systems.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper file path validation and privilege separation within the application. The software should enforce strict file extension checking and avoid executing files based on ambiguous naming patterns. System administrators should ensure that the EmFTP application runs with minimal required privileges and that directory permissions are properly configured to prevent unauthorized file placement. Additionally, regular updates and patches should be applied to address known vulnerabilities, while monitoring for suspicious file creation activities in directories where the application operates. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a privilege escalation technique through file system manipulation, emphasizing the need for robust input validation and execution control measures to prevent such attacks from succeeding.