CVE-2015-1492 in Endpoint Protection
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in the client in Symantec Endpoint Protection 12.1 before 12.1-RU6-MP1 allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse DLL in a client install package.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/07/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-1492 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within Symantec Endpoint Protection client software version 12.1 and earlier. This flaw exists in the client component of the security suite and creates a privilege escalation vector that can be exploited by local attackers. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of dynamic link library (dll) loading mechanisms during client installation processes, where the software does not properly validate or sanitize the search paths used to locate required libraries. This weakness allows malicious actors to place specially crafted dll files in locations that the client software will automatically load, effectively enabling code execution with elevated privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with common software security flaws categorized under CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element, which occurs when a program searches for files or libraries using paths that can be manipulated by attackers. The Symantec client software fails to implement proper path validation during dll loading operations, creating an environment where attacker-controlled dll files can be loaded in place of legitimate system components. This issue specifically affects the installation package handling mechanism where the client software does not properly isolate or validate the contents of packages before executing code from them. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the local user level, meaning that any user with access to the system can potentially exploit this weakness to escalate their privileges to administrative or system-level access.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses significant risks to enterprise environments where Symantec Endpoint Protection is deployed. Attackers can leverage this flaw by creating malicious dll files with names that match those expected by the client software and placing them in strategic locations within the installation package structure. The impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation to potentially enable full system compromise, as the elevated privileges gained through this method can be used to bypass other security controls, modify system configurations, or install additional malicious software. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments where local user access is not strictly controlled, as it provides a straightforward path to system compromise that does not require sophisticated attack vectors or network access. Organizations using affected versions of Symantec Endpoint Protection face potential exposure to insider threats or compromised accounts where attackers can exploit this weakness to gain unauthorized access to sensitive system resources.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-1492 focus primarily on updating to patched versions of Symantec Endpoint Protection, specifically versions 12.1 RU6 MP1 and later, which address the untrusted search path vulnerability through proper path validation and dll loading mechanisms. System administrators should implement strict access controls to prevent unauthorized users from modifying installation packages or creating malicious dll files in locations accessible to the client software. Additional protective measures include monitoring for suspicious dll file placements, implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict which dll files can be loaded, and conducting regular security audits of installation packages to ensure they contain only legitimate components. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper software development practices, particularly in the areas of secure coding and library loading mechanisms, as outlined in the software security best practices recommended by organizations such as the CERT/CC and the Open Web Application Security Project. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime protection mechanisms and endpoint detection and response solutions to identify and block exploitation attempts targeting this class of vulnerability.