CVE-2017-2228 in Sakuseishien
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Teikihoukokusho Sakuseishien Tool v4.0 allows an attacker to gain privileges via a Trojan horse DLL in an unspecified directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/08/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2228 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within the Teikihoukokusho Sakuseishien Tool version 4.0, a software application used for document management and processing. This flaw falls under the broader category of DLL injection vulnerabilities and specifically aligns with CWE-426, which addresses the execution of untrusted code due to insecure search paths. The vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate the source and integrity of dynamic link library files during the loading process, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by malicious actors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the targeted application attempts to load a dynamic link library without performing adequate security checks on the file's origin or path. Attackers can exploit this weakness by placing a malicious Trojan horse DLL in a directory that appears earlier in the system's search path than the legitimate library location. This creates a scenario where the application inadvertently loads the attacker-controlled code instead of the intended legitimate library, effectively allowing privilege escalation. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it does not require elevated privileges to exploit, as the application itself may be running with higher privileges than the attacker's initial access level.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-2228 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with potential privilege escalation capabilities that can lead to complete system compromise. When an application loads an untrusted DLL from an insecure search path, it essentially grants the attacker the ability to execute arbitrary code within the context of the application's privileges. This vulnerability can be particularly devastating in environments where the application runs with administrative privileges or has access to sensitive data. The attack vector is relatively straightforward and does not require sophisticated techniques, making it a common target for both automated attacks and targeted exploitation campaigns.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in relation to the ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation techniques, specifically the use of malicious DLLs and the exploitation of insecure library loading mechanisms. The vulnerability directly maps to techniques such as 'DLL Side-Loading' and 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation' which are frequently observed in real-world attacks. Mitigation strategies should include implementing proper DLL search path security measures, such as using absolute paths for library loading, enabling Windows Defender Application Control, and implementing strict file integrity monitoring. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that applications run with minimal necessary permissions and that the search path is carefully controlled to prevent loading of untrusted code. Organizations should also consider implementing security awareness training to prevent users from inadvertently placing malicious files in directories that are part of the application's search path, as social engineering remains a common initial vector for such attacks.