CVE-2017-2289 in Connection Tool
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Installer of Qua station connection tool for Windows version 1.00.03 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-2017-2289 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within the Qua station connection tool installer for Windows systems. This flaw exists in version 1.00.03 of the software and stems from improper handling of dynamic link library loading mechanisms during the installation process. The vulnerability manifests when the installer searches for required DLL components in a predictable sequence of directories without proper validation of the source or integrity of the loaded modules. This behavior creates an opportunity for attackers to place malicious DLL files in directories that are searched before legitimate system locations, effectively enabling privilege escalation through a Trojan horse attack vector.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-426, which describes untrusted search path conditions where applications search for libraries or executables in directories that can be manipulated by unprivileged users. The installer's failure to properly validate or sanitize the search path allows for arbitrary code execution when the system loads a malicious DLL in place of a legitimate one. This occurs because Windows follows a specific search order when resolving DLL dependencies, and if the attacker can position their malicious component in an earlier search location, the system will load their code instead of the intended legitimate library. The attack leverages the principle of least privilege violation by enabling a local attacker to execute code with elevated privileges typically reserved for system administrators or the installer process itself.
Operational impact of CVE-2017-2289 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass broader system compromise capabilities. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can effectively bypass security controls that rely on the integrity of the installation process and can establish persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the installer level, which typically runs with elevated privileges and has access to system resources and configuration settings. This creates a potential attack surface that can be leveraged for privilege escalation to SYSTEM level access, enabling the attacker to modify system files, install additional malware, or establish backdoors. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers locally executed malicious code that leverages legitimate system tools and processes to gain elevated access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper secure coding practices and system hardening measures. Organizations should ensure that all software installations follow secure search path practices by explicitly specifying full paths to required libraries and avoiding reliance on default search order behaviors. The recommended approach includes implementing the principle of least privilege for installation processes, using secure library loading mechanisms, and employing application whitelisting solutions to prevent unauthorized DLL loading. System administrators should also consider implementing directory permissions controls to prevent unprivileged users from placing files in directories that are part of the application search path. Additionally, regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar untrusted search path vulnerabilities in other applications. The use of tools such as Windows Defender Application Control or similar application control mechanisms can provide additional protection by enforcing code integrity policies that prevent execution of unauthorized DLLs, thereby closing the attack vector that CVE-2017-2289 exploits.