CVE-2017-12266 in Meeting App
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability in the routine that loads DLL files in Cisco Meeting App for Windows could allow an authenticated, local attacker to run an executable file with privileges equivalent to those of Cisco Meeting App. The vulnerability is due to incomplete input validation of the path name for DLL files before they are loaded. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by installing a crafted DLL file in a specific system directory. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to execute commands on the underlying Microsoft Windows host with privileges equivalent to those of Cisco Meeting App. The attacker would need valid user credentials to exploit this vulnerability. Cisco Bug IDs: CSCvd77907.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/15/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-12266 resides within the Cisco Meeting App for Windows application, specifically in its dynamic link library loading mechanism. This flaw represents a classic case of insecure dynamic loading practices that has significant implications for system security. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation during the DLL loading process, creating an opportunity for privilege escalation attacks. The Cisco Meeting App, when executing with elevated privileges, becomes a vector through which malicious actors can potentially gain unauthorized access to system resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's failure to properly sanitize or validate the file paths of DLL files before loading them into memory. This incomplete input validation creates a path traversal or injection scenario where an attacker can manipulate the loading sequence to execute arbitrary code. The flaw specifically manifests when the application attempts to load DLL files from system directories, allowing for potential DLL hijacking attacks. According to the Cisco Bug ID CSCvd77907, this vulnerability affects the application's trust model and its handling of dynamic library dependencies.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it enables authenticated local attackers to escalate their privileges within the system. The attacker must first obtain valid user credentials to exploit this vulnerability, but once successful, they can execute commands with the same privileges as the Cisco Meeting App process. This privilege escalation capability poses significant risk to system integrity and confidentiality, as the attacker can potentially access sensitive data, modify system configurations, or establish persistent access. The vulnerability effectively undermines the principle of least privilege by allowing unauthorized code execution within the application's security context.
Security professionals should recognize this vulnerability as a manifestation of CWE-706, which addresses the use of untrusted input in security decisions. The flaw also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as successful exploitation would enable command execution. The attack vector requires local system access and valid authentication, making it a privilege escalation vulnerability rather than a remote exploit. Mitigation strategies should include implementing proper input validation, using secure coding practices for dynamic loading operations, and ensuring that applications run with minimal required privileges. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and monitoring for suspicious DLL loading activities to detect potential exploitation attempts.