CVE-2017-2227 in OMP
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in The installer of Charamin OMP Version 1.1.7.4 and earlier, Version 1.2.0.0 Beta 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 • 10/24/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2227 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within the Charamin OMP installer software version 1.1.7.4 and earlier, as well as version 1.2.0.0 Beta and earlier. This flaw falls under the broader category of insecure library loading practices that have been extensively documented in cybersecurity frameworks and standards. The vulnerability stems from the installer's failure to properly validate or sanitize the search paths used when loading dynamic link libraries, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the installer's reliance on a predictable search path that does not adequately verify the authenticity or integrity of dynamically loaded modules. When the installer processes the installation sequence, it searches for required DLL files in a specific order that includes user-writable directories. An attacker can exploit this by placing a malicious Trojan horse DLL in one of these search path locations, which will then be loaded and executed with the privileges of the installer process. This behavior directly corresponds to CWE-426, which describes the insecure loading of dynamic libraries due to untrusted search paths, and aligns with the broader category of privilege escalation vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass full system compromise when the installer is executed with administrative privileges. Attackers can leverage this weakness to gain elevated access to systems, potentially leading to complete system takeover, data exfiltration, or establishment of persistent backdoors. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the installation phase, where users typically execute installers with elevated privileges, and the attack vector requires minimal user interaction beyond the installation process itself. This makes it an attractive target for advanced persistent threat actors and malware authors seeking to establish footholds within enterprise environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2227 should focus on implementing proper path validation and privilege separation during the installation process. Organizations should ensure that installers are configured to use absolute paths for library loading rather than relying on search path resolution, and should implement strict access controls on installation directories to prevent unauthorized DLL placement. The remediation approach should include updating to patched versions of Charamin OMP, implementing application whitelisting controls, and conducting regular security assessments of installation processes. From a defensive perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for execution through command and scripting interpreter, and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, making it a significant concern for security operations centers implementing threat hunting and incident response procedures. System administrators should also consider implementing monitoring for suspicious DLL loading activities and establish proper code signing practices to ensure that only trusted modules are loaded during installation processes.