CVE-2017-17010 in Content Manager Assistant for PlayStation
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Content Manager Assistant for PlayStation version 3.55.7671.0901 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 • 12/18/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-17010 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within the Content Manager Assistant for PlayStation software ecosystem. This flaw affects version 3.55.7671.0901 and earlier installations, creating a significant security risk that could be exploited by malicious actors to escalate privileges on affected systems. The vulnerability stems from the application's improper handling of dynamic link library loading processes, where the software fails to validate the source and integrity of dynamically loaded modules.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the application's search path resolution mechanism, which does not properly sanitize or verify the locations from which DLL files are loaded. When the Content Manager Assistant attempts to load required libraries, it searches through a predefined set of directories in a specific order without implementing proper validation checks. This behavior creates an opportunity for attackers to place malicious DLL files in directories that are searched before legitimate system locations, allowing for code injection and privilege escalation. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-426, which describes the insecure loading of dynamic libraries due to untrusted search paths, and represents a classic example of a Trojan horse attack vector.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it provides attackers with potential access to sensitive system resources and data managed by the PlayStation Content Manager Assistant. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain elevated privileges sufficient to execute arbitrary code with the same permissions as the running application, potentially leading to full system compromise. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that Content Manager Assistant is designed to interface with PlayStation devices and manage content transfers, making it a valuable target for adversaries seeking to exploit gaming systems or connected devices. This vulnerability also relates to ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter execution, as the privilege escalation could enable attackers to execute malicious payloads through the compromised application.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-17010 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves updating to version 3.55.7671.1001 or later, which includes proper DLL loading validation and secure search path implementation. Organizations should also implement application whitelisting policies that restrict which DLL files can be loaded by the Content Manager Assistant, as well as monitor system directories for unauthorized DLL placements. System administrators should conduct thorough security audits of all PlayStation-related software installations and ensure that the application's search path is properly configured to prioritize system directories over user-accessible locations. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit potential attack vectors, particularly in enterprise environments where gaming systems may be connected to corporate networks. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation, particularly when dealing with dynamic library loading mechanisms that form the foundation of many modern applications.