CVE-2017-2177 in Ninsho
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Installer of Shogyo Touki Denshi Ninsho Software Ver 1.7 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 • 10/16/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2177 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within the Installer component of Shogyo Touki Denshi Ninsho Software version 1.7 and earlier. This flaw manifests as a privilege escalation vulnerability that stems from improper handling of dynamic link library loading sequences during software installation processes. The vulnerability specifically affects the installer's ability to securely resolve library dependencies, creating an exploitable condition where malicious actors can inject arbitrary code through carefully crafted malicious DLL files. The affected software operates within the Japanese market segment for digital signature and authentication solutions, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for organizations relying on secure authentication mechanisms. This issue falls under the broader category of DLL injection attacks and aligns with CWE-426, which addresses the execution of untrusted code through insecure search paths.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the installer process searches for required dynamic link libraries in a predictable order that includes insecure directories. Attackers can place malicious DLL files in directories that are searched before the legitimate system directories, causing the installer to load and execute the malicious code with elevated privileges. The unspecified directory mentioned in the description indicates that the vulnerability exists in multiple potential locations within the installation path, making it difficult for administrators to fully mitigate the risk through simple directory restrictions. The installer's failure to properly validate or sanitize the search path leads to a condition where any user with access to the installation environment can potentially compromise the system. This vulnerability directly impacts the principle of least privilege and can be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers local privilege escalation through exploitation of software vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-2177 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential full system compromise and data exfiltration capabilities. Organizations using affected software versions face significant risk of unauthorized system access, especially in environments where installation processes are performed with elevated privileges. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in corporate environments where software installation procedures may not be strictly controlled, as it allows attackers to execute code with the same privileges as the installer process. This can lead to persistent backdoors, credential theft, and further network infiltration. The attack vector is relatively simple to exploit, requiring only the placement of a malicious DLL in an appropriate directory, making it an attractive target for adversaries seeking to establish footholds within networks. The vulnerability's impact is compounded by the fact that many organizations may not regularly update their authentication software, leaving systems exposed to this known vulnerability for extended periods.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2177 should focus on immediate software updates to versions that address the untrusted search path vulnerability. Organizations should implement strict directory access controls and ensure that installation directories are properly secured to prevent unauthorized DLL placement. The principle of least privilege should be enforced during installation processes, limiting the privileges granted to installation procedures. System administrators should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected software within their environments and implement monitoring for suspicious DLL loading activities. Network segmentation and application whitelisting can provide additional layers of protection against exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper library loading mechanisms, emphasizing the need for developers to implement secure search path resolution techniques. Organizations should also consider implementing behavioral monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous DLL loading patterns indicative of exploitation attempts. Given the nature of the vulnerability, regular security audits of installation processes and system configurations are essential to prevent exploitation through this attack vector. The remediation approach should include not only updating the affected software but also implementing comprehensive security policies around software installation and execution.