CVE-2015-8156 in Endpoint Encryption
Summary
by MITRE
Unquoted Windows search path vulnerability in EEDService in Symantec Endpoint Encryption (SEE) 11.x before 11.1.1 allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse executable file in the %SYSTEMDRIVE% directory, as demonstrated by program.exe.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2024
The vulnerability CVE-2015-8156 represents a critical unquoted search path weakness in Symantec Endpoint Encryption EEDService component affecting versions 11.x prior to 11.1.1. This flaw resides in the Windows service execution mechanism where the system fails to properly quote service executable paths during the search process, creating a privilege escalation vector for local attackers. The vulnerability specifically impacts the EEDService which operates within the context of the Windows operating system and handles encryption-related functions for endpoint devices. When Windows searches for executables referenced in service paths that lack proper quotation, it follows a predictable search order that can be manipulated by malicious actors to execute unauthorized code with elevated privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of executable paths in Windows service configurations where the service binary path contains spaces but lacks proper quotation. In the affected Symantec Endpoint Encryption environment, the EEDService is configured with a path that includes spaces but does not use quotation marks around the path. This creates a scenario where Windows performs a search through the PATH environment variable for executables, and if a malicious program named program.exe exists in the %SYSTEMDRIVE% directory, Windows will execute this unauthorized binary instead of the legitimate service executable. This behavior directly aligns with CWE-428, which describes the weakness of unquoted search paths that allow attackers to place malicious executables in locations that are searched before the intended target.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass broader security implications for enterprise environments using Symantec Endpoint Encryption. Local attackers with basic user privileges can exploit this weakness to execute arbitrary code with system-level privileges, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal reconnaissance and can be executed by any local user with access to the system. The vulnerability enables attackers to establish persistent backdoors, escalate privileges beyond the initial compromise, and potentially move laterally within the network. This weakness represents a significant concern for organizations relying on endpoint encryption solutions, as it undermines the security controls designed to protect sensitive data.
The exploitation of this vulnerability follows established patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under techniques such as privilege escalation and persistence mechanisms. Attackers typically place malicious executables in the %SYSTEMDRIVE% directory with the same name as the legitimate service executable, leveraging the Windows search path behavior to execute code with elevated privileges. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to address this vulnerability, ensuring that Symantec Endpoint Encryption is updated to version 11.1.1 or later where the unquoted search path issue has been resolved. Additionally, system administrators should conduct regular audits of service configurations to identify and remediate similar unquoted path vulnerabilities across the enterprise environment. The fix implemented by Symantec involves proper quotation of executable paths within the service configuration, preventing the Windows search mechanism from traversing unintended directories and ensuring that only the intended executables are executed during service startup operations.