CVE-2017-15383 in Nero
Summary
by MITRE
Nero 7.10.1.0 has an unquoted BINARY_PATH_NAME for NBService, exploitable via a Trojan horse Nero.exe file in the %PROGRAMFILES(x86)%\Nero directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/03/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-15383 resides within Nero 7.10.1.0 software and represents a classic privilege escalation vector through insecure service configuration. This flaw manifests in the form of an unquoted binary path name for the NBService component, creating a significant security weakness that adversaries can exploit to gain elevated privileges on affected systems. The vulnerability specifically affects the Windows service installation where the binary path is not properly quoted, allowing for path traversal attacks. When Windows attempts to execute the service binary, it searches through the directory path components in sequence, potentially executing malicious code placed in directories earlier in the path. The attack vector involves placing a Trojan horse Nero.exe file in the %PROGRAMFILES(x86)%\Nero directory, which leverages the unquoted service path to execute malicious code with system-level privileges. This configuration violates fundamental security principles and creates an opportunity for attackers to escalate their privileges from standard user to administrator level.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper service installation practices where the service binary path contains spaces but lacks proper quotation. According to CWE-16, this represents a weakness in the design of software components where pathnames are not properly quoted, creating opportunities for malicious code injection. The service configuration allows Windows to interpret the path as multiple separate components rather than a single quoted string, enabling attackers to place malicious executables in intermediate directories. When the service attempts to execute the binary, Windows searches the PATH environment variable for the first matching executable, potentially executing the malicious file instead of the legitimate service binary. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1035 which describes service execution through manipulation of service binaries, and T1068 which covers privilege escalation via service misconfigurations.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-15383 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with persistent access to compromised systems. Once exploited, adversaries can maintain long-term presence on target networks while operating with elevated privileges, potentially accessing sensitive data, installing additional malware, or using the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks. The vulnerability affects systems where Nero software is installed, particularly those running Windows operating systems that support the affected service configuration. Attackers can leverage this weakness in various scenarios including targeted attacks against organizations with legacy software installations, or during broader reconnaissance activities where they identify vulnerable systems. The exploitability of this vulnerability is relatively high due to the predictable nature of the service path and the common presence of Nero software in enterprise environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-15383 require immediate attention from system administrators and security teams. The most effective approach involves properly quoting the service binary path during installation, ensuring that all directory paths containing spaces are enclosed in quotation marks. This prevents Windows from interpreting the path components separately and eliminates the opportunity for path traversal attacks. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all systems with unquoted service paths and remediate them through proper service reconfiguration. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies and restricting write access to program directories can prevent attackers from placing malicious executables in the targeted locations. System administrators should also consider removing unnecessary software installations and applying the latest security patches from Nero to address known vulnerabilities. Regular security audits of service configurations and PATH environment variable settings help maintain defense in depth against similar issues, while monitoring for unauthorized service modifications can detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper service installation practices and highlights how seemingly minor configuration issues can create significant security risks.