CVE-2017-2149 in SDHC SDXC Memory Card with embedded NFC functionality Software Update Tool
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in installers of the software for SDHC/SDXC Memory Card with embedded NFC functionality Software Update Tool V1.00.03 and earlier, SDHC Memory Card with embedded wireless LAN functionality FlashAir Configuration Software V3.0.2 and earlier, SDHC Memory Card with embedded wireless LAN functionality FlashAir Software Update tool (SD-WE series<W-03>) V3.00.01, SDHC Memory Card with embedded wireless LAN functionality FlashAir Software Update tool (SD-WD/WC series<W-02>) V2.00.03 and earlier, SDHC Memory Card with embedded wireless LAN functionality FlashAir Software Update tool (SD-WB/WL series) V1.00.04 and earlier, SDHC Memory Card with embedded TransferJet functionality Configuration Software V1.02 and earlier, SDHC Memory Card with embedded TransferJet functionality Software Update tool V1.00.06 and earlier allows remote attackers to gain privileges via a Trojan horse DLL in an unspecified directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/30/2019
This vulnerability represents a classic untrusted search path flaw that affects multiple installer components for various memory card products with embedded wireless and NFC functionality. The issue stems from the software installers not properly validating the directories from which they load dynamic link libraries, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to place malicious DLL files in locations that are searched before legitimate system directories. This particular vulnerability affects several versions of software tools including the SDHC/SDXC Memory Card with embedded NFC functionality Software Update Tool, FlashAir Configuration Software, and various FlashAir Software Update tools across multiple product series. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-426 which specifically addresses Untrusted Search Path vulnerabilities where programs search for libraries in insecure locations that can be manipulated by attackers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges by placing a malicious Trojan horse DLL in an unspecified directory that gets searched during the installation process. When the vulnerable installer runs, it follows a predictable search order that includes user-writable directories, allowing an attacker to place a malicious DLL with the same name as a legitimate library. This technique exploits the principle of least privilege by leveraging the installer's elevated permissions to execute malicious code. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects multiple product lines and versions, indicating a systemic design flaw in the installer components rather than an isolated issue.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to include potential system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, keyloggers, or other persistent malicious software that operates with the privileges of the installer process. The fact that this affects both configuration and update tools means that attackers could potentially compromise the integrity of the entire memory card ecosystem, especially since these tools are often run with elevated permissions during installation. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, and T1068 which covers exploit for privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both the immediate installer behavior and the broader software development practices that enabled the issue. Organizations should immediately update to patched versions of all affected software components, as the vulnerability affects multiple product series with different version numbers. System administrators should implement strict directory permissions and monitoring to prevent unauthorized DLL placement in installer search paths. Additionally, the use of application whitelisting and secure coding practices should be enforced to prevent similar issues in future development cycles. The vulnerability highlights the importance of implementing proper DLL search path security measures such as using absolute paths for library loading, implementing secure library loading practices, and following the principle of least privilege in installer design. This vulnerability also underscores the necessity for thorough security testing of installer components and the implementation of runtime protections against untrusted library loading scenarios.