CVE-2014-8394 in Corelcad
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple untrusted search path vulnerabilities in Corel CAD 2014 allow local users to execute arbitrary code and conduct DLL hijacking attacks via a Trojan horse (1) FxManagedCommands_3.08_9.tx or (2) TD_Mgd_3.08_9.dll file in the current working directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/17/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-8394 represents a critical untrusted search path issue affecting Corel CAD 2014 software. This flaw resides in the application's dynamic link library (dll) loading mechanism and stems from improper handling of library search paths during software execution. The vulnerability manifests when the application attempts to load specific managed command libraries without properly validating the source or location of these components, creating opportunities for malicious code execution through carefully crafted file placement attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through DLL hijacking techniques where attackers place malicious files with specific names in the current working directory from which the application executes. The two identified vulnerable files are FxManagedCommands_3.08_9.tx and TD_Mgd_3.08_9.dll, both of which are legitimate library components that the application expects to load. When these files are replaced or pre-positioned by an attacker in the working directory, the application loads the malicious versions instead of the legitimate ones, enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected user.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-426, which describes untrusted search path vulnerabilities where applications use insecure library loading practices. The attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter execution, as the malicious code executes within the context of the CAD application. The local privilege escalation aspect of this vulnerability means that attackers with limited user access can potentially gain elevated privileges depending on the application's execution context and system permissions.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-8394 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to systems running Corel CAD 2014. The vulnerability affects any system where the application is installed and executed, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where CAD software is commonly used. The attack requires minimal user interaction since the malicious files can be placed in the working directory without requiring administrative privileges, and the application's normal execution flow triggers the malicious code loading.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability include immediate application updates from Corel to address the untrusted search path implementation, implementing proper file permissions to prevent unauthorized file placement in application directories, and employing application whitelisting solutions to restrict which executables can run on the system. System administrators should also conduct thorough security audits to identify any instances of the vulnerable software and ensure that the application is running with the minimum required privileges. Additionally, the use of security software that monitors for suspicious file creation and modification activities in application directories can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper library loading mechanisms in preventing DLL hijacking attacks that have been documented in numerous other software applications across various platforms and industries.