CVE-2014-9207 in CmnView
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in CmnView.exe in CIMON CmnView 2.14.0.1 and 3.x before UltimateAccess 3.02 allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse DLL in the current working directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/24/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9207 represents a critical untrusted search path weakness in the CIMON CmnView software suite, specifically affecting versions 2.14.0.1 and 3.x prior to UltimateAccess 3.02. This flaw exists within the CmnView.exe executable which operates as part of the CIMON CmnView application, a component commonly used for viewing and managing various data formats within enterprise environments. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate the source and integrity of dynamically loaded libraries, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by local attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the CmnView.exe process attempts to load dynamic link libraries without specifying absolute paths or proper validation mechanisms. When the application executes, it searches for required DLL files in the current working directory before checking system directories, allowing an attacker to place a malicious DLL file with the same name as a legitimate library in the same directory as the vulnerable executable. This behavior aligns with CWE-426 Untrusted Search Path, which specifically addresses the risks associated with applications that search for libraries in insecure locations. The vulnerability operates under the principle that the application will load the first matching library file it encounters, regardless of its authenticity or origin, creating a classic attack vector for privilege escalation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass full system compromise when exploited successfully. Local users who can manipulate the current working directory where CmnView.exe executes gain the ability to elevate their privileges to the level of the running process, which typically operates with elevated permissions due to the nature of system management tools. This privilege escalation capability allows attackers to access sensitive system resources, modify critical files, establish persistence mechanisms, and potentially move laterally within the network. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires minimal privileges to exploit and can be triggered through simple file placement attacks, making it an attractive target for both malicious insiders and external attackers seeking to gain unauthorized access to enterprise systems. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1068 Exploitation for Privilege Escalation and T1574 DLL Side-Loading, which specifically addresses the technique of placing malicious code in locations where legitimate software will load it without proper verification.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-9207 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves applying the vendor-provided patch that updates the CmnView software to a version that properly validates DLL paths and implements secure library loading mechanisms. Organizations should also implement strict access controls to prevent unauthorized modification of the application directory and its parent directories, ensuring that only authorized personnel can place files in locations where the vulnerable software operates. System administrators should consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict which executables can run in specific directories, thereby preventing the execution of unauthorized DLL files. Additionally, regular security audits should verify that no vulnerable versions of CIMON CmnView remain in production environments, and network monitoring should be configured to detect unusual file creation patterns in directories containing the vulnerable application. The implementation of secure coding practices, particularly those addressing library loading and path resolution, should be enforced across all development teams to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future software releases. Organizations should also consider deploying endpoint protection solutions that can detect and block suspicious DLL loading behaviors, providing an additional layer of defense against exploitation attempts.