CVE-2016-8008 in McAfee Security Scan Plus
Summary
by MITRE
Privilege escalation vulnerability in Windows 7 and Windows 10 in McAfee Security Scan Plus (SSP) 3.11.376 allows attackers to load a replacement of the version.dll file via McAfee McUICnt.exe onto a Windows system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/06/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-8008 represents a critical privilege escalation flaw within McAfee Security Scan Plus version 3.11.376 running on Windows 7 and Windows 10 operating systems. This issue stems from improper file handling mechanisms within the McAfee McUICnt.exe component that governs the user interface communication for the security scanning process. The vulnerability specifically targets the version.dll file loading mechanism, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to substitute legitimate system files with compromised versions. The flaw operates through a path traversal or file replacement attack vector where an attacker can manipulate the dynamic link library loading process to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the exploitation of insecure file operations within the McAfee security suite's update and communication framework. When the McUICnt.exe process initializes, it loads version.dll from a predictable location without proper validation of file integrity or digital signatures. This behavior creates a window of opportunity for attackers to place a malicious version.dll file in the expected location before the legitimate file is loaded. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-276, which addresses improper privilege management, and specifically demonstrates weak file permissions and inadequate access controls. The flaw also relates to CWE-427, as it involves uncontrolled search path elements where the system loads libraries from predictable locations without proper validation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to potentially enable full system compromise. Attackers who successfully exploit this flaw can execute code with system-level privileges, allowing them to install malware, modify system files, establish persistence mechanisms, or access sensitive data. The attack requires local system access but does not need network connectivity, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users have administrative privileges. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through the exploitation of software vulnerabilities. The compromised system can then serve as a foothold for further lateral movement within the network, as attackers gain elevated access that bypasses standard user account restrictions and security controls.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-8008 should focus on immediate patching of the McAfee Security Scan Plus software to version 3.11.377 or later, which includes proper file validation and secure loading mechanisms. System administrators should implement strict file permission controls on critical system directories and monitor for unauthorized file modifications to version.dll and related components. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by limiting user access to system directories and ensuring that only authorized processes can modify security-related files. Additionally, organizations should deploy application whitelisting solutions that restrict the execution of unsigned or untrusted binaries, particularly those that might attempt to replace system libraries. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious file operations and unauthorized DLL loading attempts, while regular security audits should verify that no malicious files have been installed in vulnerable locations. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of maintaining current security software versions and implementing comprehensive endpoint protection strategies that include both signature-based and behavior-based detection mechanisms.