CVE-2017-17518 in White_dune
Summary
by MITRE
swt/motif/browser.c in White_dune (aka whitedune) 0.30.10 does not validate strings before launching the program specified by the BROWSER environment variable, which might allow remote attackers to conduct argument-injection attacks via a crafted URL.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/06/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-17518 resides within the White_dune software package version 0.30.10, specifically in the swt/motif/browser.c component. This flaw represents a critical security oversight that enables remote attackers to exploit argument injection techniques through maliciously crafted URLs. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize string inputs before executing external programs. When White_dune processes web requests or handles URL navigation, it relies on the BROWSER environment variable to determine which program should handle web browsing operations, creating an attack surface where malicious input can directly influence command execution.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-78, which describes improper neutralization of special elements used in OS commands, and CWE-94, which covers improper control of generation of code. The flaw occurs because the software does not validate or sanitize the content of strings that are used to construct command-line arguments for executing external browser programs. When a user encounters a crafted URL containing malicious input, the system passes this unvalidated data directly to the system shell or command execution function, allowing attackers to inject additional commands that execute with the privileges of the White_dune process. This represents a classic command injection vulnerability that can be leveraged for arbitrary code execution on the affected system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on systems running vulnerable versions of White_dune. Attackers could potentially use this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to system resources, escalate privileges, or establish persistent backdoors within the network. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no local access or authentication, making it a remote code execution vulnerability that can be exploited over the network. This vulnerability affects any system that uses White_dune for browsing or web content handling, particularly in environments where the software is exposed to untrusted web content or user interactions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-17518 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the White_dune software. Organizations should immediately update to patched versions of the software where available, as the vulnerability has been addressed in subsequent releases. System administrators should also consider implementing additional protective measures such as restricting the BROWSER environment variable to trusted applications only, implementing proper string sanitization routines, and employing network segmentation to limit potential attack surfaces. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Practices and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and script injection. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing runtime application self-protection mechanisms and monitoring for suspicious command execution patterns to detect potential exploitation attempts.