CVE-2017-10858 in i-filter
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in "i-filter 6.0 install program" file version 1.0.8.1 and earlier allows an attacker to gain privileges via a Trojan horse DLL in an unspecified directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/17/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-10858 represents a critical untrusted search path weakness within the i-filter 6.0 installation program, specifically affecting versions 1.0.8.1 and earlier. This flaw resides in the installation utility's handling of dynamic link library loading processes, where the software fails to properly validate or sanitize the search paths used to locate required system components. The issue manifests when the installer attempts to load DLL files during the installation process, creating an environment where malicious actors can manipulate the system's library resolution mechanism.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a Trojan horse DLL attack vector where an attacker places a maliciously crafted dynamic link library in a directory that is prioritized in the system's search path. When the vulnerable i-filter installer executes, it loads the attacker-controlled DLL instead of the legitimate system component, enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the installing user. This privilege escalation mechanism operates through the fundamental principle of DLL hijacking, where the system's default search order is exploited to load unauthorized code. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element, which specifically addresses the dangerous practice of allowing user-controllable paths to influence program execution.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability poses significant risks to enterprise environments where software installation processes are frequently executed with elevated privileges. The attack requires minimal sophistication as it relies on the installer's failure to implement proper security controls during the dynamic library loading phase. The impact extends beyond simple privilege escalation to potentially enable full system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. Organizations running affected versions of i-filter software face potential exposure through various attack scenarios including social engineering campaigns that trick users into executing the vulnerable installer, or automated exploitation through compromised software distribution channels.
The remediation strategy for this vulnerability requires immediate patching of the i-filter software to version 1.0.9.0 or later, which implements proper DLL loading mechanisms and validates search paths before library resolution. System administrators should also implement application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of unauthorized DLLs, particularly in directories commonly used for software installation activities. Network segmentation and privilege separation measures can help limit the potential impact of successful exploitation attempts. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous DLL loading patterns and unauthorized file placements in system directories. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in installation utilities, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1068 for privilege escalation through DLL hijacking and T1059 for execution through malicious code injection. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify other software components that may exhibit similar untrusted search path behaviors, as this represents a common class of vulnerability in Windows-based applications.