CVE-2015-8113 in Endpoint Protection
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in the client in Symantec Endpoint Protection (SEP) 12.1 before 12.1-RU6-MP3 allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse DLL in a client install package. NOTE: this vulnerability exists because of an incomplete fix for CVE-2015-1492.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/12/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-8113 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within Symantec Endpoint Protection client software, specifically affecting versions prior to 12.1-RU6-MP3. This flaw exploits the improper handling of dynamic link library loading mechanisms during client installation processes, creating a pathway for local attackers to elevate their privileges on affected systems. The vulnerability serves as a continuation of the remediation efforts for CVE-2015-1492, indicating that the initial fix was incomplete and left residual attack surfaces that malicious actors could exploit.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the client installation package's failure to properly validate or sanitize the search paths used when loading DLL modules. When Symantec Endpoint Protection processes client installation packages, it does not adequately verify the authenticity or source of dynamically linked libraries that are loaded during the installation process. This creates an environment where a local attacker can place a malicious Trojan horse DLL in the client install package directory, which will then be loaded and executed with the privileges of the installation process. The flaw operates under the principle of insecure library loading, which maps to CWE-427 and CWE-428 within the Common Weakness Enumeration framework.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-8113 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential full system compromise. Local users who can manipulate the client installation package directory gain the ability to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially allowing them to install malware, modify system files, or establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the installation phase, meaning that legitimate users or attackers with local access can exploit it without requiring network connectivity or complex attack chains. This characteristic aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through the exploitation of system vulnerabilities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate deployment of Symantec's official patches and updates, specifically version 12.1-RU6-MP3 or later, which contain the complete remediation for both CVE-2015-8113 and its predecessor CVE-2015-1492. Organizations should also implement additional defensive measures including privileged access controls, file integrity monitoring, and regular security audits of installation directories. The remediation process should include comprehensive system scanning to identify any potential exploitation attempts and ensure that no malicious DLLs have been previously installed in the affected search paths. Security teams must also consider implementing least privilege principles for installation processes and monitoring for unusual activity in client installation package directories to prevent future exploitation attempts.