CVE-2014-9416 in eSpace Desktop
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple untrusted search path vulnerabilities in Huawei eSpace Desktop before V200R003C00 allow local users to execute arbitrary code and conduct DLL hijacking attacks via a Trojan horse (1) mfc71enu.dll, (2) mfc71loc.dll, (3) tcapi.dll, or (4) airpcap.dll.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-9416 represents a critical untrusted search path issue affecting Huawei eSpace Desktop software prior to version V200R003C00. This flaw resides in the software's dynamic link library (dll) loading mechanism, creating an environment where malicious actors can exploit the system's default search order to execute arbitrary code. The vulnerability specifically targets four distinct dll files including mfc71enu.dll, mfc71loc.dll, tcapi.dll, and airpcap.dll, all of which are susceptible to manipulation through Trojan horse attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a process known as DLL hijacking, where an attacker places a maliciously crafted dll file in a location that the vulnerable application will search before finding the legitimate dll. This behavior aligns with common attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the technique of 'DLL Side-Loading' and 'DLL Hijacking'. The root cause stems from improper handling of the Windows dll search order, where the system first looks in the current working directory before examining system directories, creating an exploitable gap in the application's security posture.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables local users to achieve arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the targeted application, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector requires local access to the system, making it particularly dangerous in environments where insider threats exist or where system integrity cannot be fully trusted. The specific dll files mentioned are commonly used in networking and telecommunications applications, which adds to the severity as these components often require elevated privileges to function properly.
The vulnerability demonstrates a classic example of insecure library loading practices that aligns with CWE-427, which describes uncontrolled search path in applications. This weakness allows attackers to influence the execution flow of legitimate applications by manipulating the dll search order. Organizations running affected Huawei eSpace Desktop versions face significant risk as this vulnerability can be exploited without requiring network access or sophisticated attack techniques. The attack surface is particularly concerning given the nature of desktop collaboration software, which often requires access to system resources and network connectivity.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-9416 should include immediate software updates to Huawei eSpace Desktop V200R003C00 or later versions where the vulnerability has been addressed. System administrators should also implement additional security controls such as enabling Windows AppLocker policies to restrict dll loading from untrusted locations, configuring proper file permissions, and conducting regular security audits of system directories. The implementation of least privilege principles and regular vulnerability assessments will further reduce the risk exposure associated with this and similar vulnerabilities. Additionally, monitoring for suspicious dll loading activities and implementing behavioral analysis tools can provide early detection of potential exploitation attempts.