CVE-2014-8359 in Ec177
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Huawei Mobile Partner for Windows 23.009.05.03.1014 allows local users to execute arbitrary code and conduct DLL hijacking attacks via a Trojan horse wintab32.dll in the Mobile Partner directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-8359 represents a critical untrusted search path issue affecting Huawei Mobile Partner version 23.009.05.03.1014 on Windows operating systems. This flaw stems from the application's improper handling of dynamic link library (dll) loading mechanisms within its execution environment, creating a pathway for malicious code execution through carefully crafted file placement within the application's directory structure.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability lies in the application's failure to properly validate or restrict the search path used when loading dynamic link libraries. According to CWE-427, this represents a classic uncontrolled search path vulnerability where the software searches for libraries in predictable locations without proper sanitization of the search path. The specific flaw allows attackers to place a malicious wintab32.dll file in the Mobile Partner installation directory, which the legitimate application will then load and execute without proper verification or authentication.
This vulnerability enables local users to conduct sophisticated DLL hijacking attacks by exploiting the application's trust in its own directory structure. The attack vector specifically targets the Mobile Partner directory where the application expects to find certain system libraries, but attackers can substitute malicious versions that execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the victim user. This technique aligns with ATT&CK tactic T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1546.009 for exploit for persistence through dll side loading.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows attackers to escalate privileges and execute malicious code within the context of the user running the Mobile Partner application. This creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited for data exfiltration, system compromise, or further network infiltration. The vulnerability affects any local user with access to the Mobile Partner installation directory, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where standard users might have write access to application directories.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper application sandboxing and privilege separation to prevent unauthorized file placement in application directories. System administrators should ensure that the Mobile Partner installation directory has restricted write permissions and that users cannot modify application files. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies and regular security audits of application directories can help detect and prevent such attacks. The vulnerability underscores the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices, particularly around library loading mechanisms, as recommended by the OWASP Top 10 security principles and Microsoft's secure coding guidelines for preventing dll hijacking attacks.