CVE-2017-2213 in SemiDynaEXE
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in SemiDynaEXE (SemiDynaEXE2008.EXE) ver. 1.0.2 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-2017-2213 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within SemiDynaEXE version 1.0.2, specifically affecting the SemiDynaEXE2008.EXE executable. This flaw resides in the software's dynamic link library loading mechanism, where the application fails to properly validate or restrict the directories from which it loads dependent DLL modules. The vulnerability manifests when the executable searches for required libraries in a predictable order that includes user-writable directories, creating an opportunity for privilege escalation through malicious code injection.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-426, which describes the weakness of executing programs with untrusted search paths, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers privilege escalation through the exploitation of dynamic link library loading mechanisms. The affected SemiDynaEXE application demonstrates poor secure coding practices by not implementing proper DLL search path isolation or by failing to use absolute paths when loading libraries. The Trojan horse DLL attack vector exploits the fact that the system searches for DLLs in a specific order including the current working directory, which can be manipulated by an attacker to place malicious code in a location that will be loaded before legitimate system libraries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides a pathway for attackers to escalate privileges within the system. When an attacker successfully places a malicious DLL in a directory that will be searched before the legitimate library locations, the application will load and execute the malicious code with the privileges of the user running the SemiDynaEXE application. This can result in complete system compromise, especially if the application runs with elevated privileges or if the user has administrative rights. The vulnerability affects systems where the application is executed in directories that are writable by unprivileged users, creating a persistent threat vector that can be exploited across multiple sessions.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2213 should focus on implementing proper DLL loading practices and system hardening measures. Organizations should ensure that applications use absolute paths when loading DLLs, implement proper search path isolation, and employ secure coding practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Practices. The recommended approach includes using the LoadLibraryEx function with the LOAD_WITH_ALTERED_SEARCH_PATH flag, or alternatively, implementing a more secure search path by explicitly setting the system path or using the SetDllDirectory API call. Additionally, system administrators should conduct regular security assessments to identify applications with similar vulnerabilities and ensure that the principle of least privilege is enforced for all executables. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date software and applying vendor security patches promptly, as this issue was likely addressed in subsequent versions of the SemiDynaEXE software through proper implementation of secure library loading mechanisms.