CVE-2016-8274 in HiSuite
Summary
by MITRE
Huawei PC client software HiSuite 4.0.5.300_OVE has a dynamic link library (DLL) hijack vulnerability; an attacker can make the system load malicious DLL files to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/24/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-8274 affects Huawei PC client software HiSuite 4.0.5.300_OVE and represents a classic dynamic link library hijacking flaw that enables remote code execution. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of dynamic library loading mechanisms within the software installation and execution process, creating opportunities for malicious actors to escalate privileges and compromise systems. The issue manifests when the application fails to properly validate or restrict the paths from which dynamic link libraries are loaded, allowing attackers to place malicious DLL files in strategic locations where the legitimate software will attempt to load them.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-426, which describes the improper handling of dynamic library loading, and specifically demonstrates the risks associated with insecure library loading practices. Attackers can exploit this weakness by placing malicious DLL files in directories that are searched before the legitimate library locations, a technique commonly referred to as DLL preloading or DLL hijacking. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the system level where the application loads libraries during normal operation, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the HiSuite application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to establish persistent access to compromised systems and escalate privileges. When an attacker successfully places a malicious DLL in a location that HiSuite will load, they can effectively take control of the application's execution flow, potentially gaining access to sensitive data, system resources, or network communications. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may have elevated privileges, and it can be leveraged as a stepping stone for broader network compromise. The vulnerability also demonstrates weaknesses in software supply chain security and highlights the importance of proper application sandboxing and privilege management.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. Software vendors should implement proper DLL loading mechanisms that use explicit paths and validate library origins before loading. System administrators should conduct regular security assessments to identify potential DLL hijacking opportunities and implement application whitelisting policies to prevent unauthorized DLL execution. The vulnerability also emphasizes the need for adherence to secure coding practices as outlined in the software security development lifecycle, particularly focusing on proper library loading and privilege separation. Organizations should consider implementing endpoint protection solutions that monitor for suspicious DLL loading activities and maintain up-to-date security patches for all software components. Additionally, this vulnerability serves as a reminder of the ATT&CK framework's relevance in understanding how adversaries might leverage such weaknesses to establish persistence and maintain access within compromised environments.