CVE-2017-3097 in Digital Editions
Summary
by MITRE
Adobe Digital Editions versions 4.5.4 and earlier contain an insecure library loading vulnerability. The vulnerability is due to unsafe library loading functions in the installer plugin. A successful exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/17/2019
Adobe Digital Editions versions 4.5.4 and earlier contain a critical insecure library loading vulnerability that stems from unsafe library loading functions within the installer plugin component. This vulnerability represents a classic case of improper library resolution where the application fails to properly validate or restrict the paths from which dynamic libraries are loaded. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate the library loading process and potentially execute arbitrary code on vulnerable systems. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it exists within the installer plugin which typically runs with elevated privileges during installation processes, providing an attractive attack vector for malicious actors seeking to compromise systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability falls under CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element, where the application's search path for dynamic libraries is not properly secured against manipulation. This weakness enables attackers to place malicious libraries in directories that are searched before legitimate system libraries, effectively allowing for code injection during the loading phase. The installer plugin component likely uses standard Windows API functions such as LoadLibrary or LoadLibraryEx without proper path validation or sandboxing, creating opportunities for attackers to subvert the normal library loading sequence. This type of vulnerability is classified as a privilege escalation vector since the installer typically operates with administrative privileges, potentially allowing attackers to gain elevated system access.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents significant risk to organizations and individual users who utilize Adobe Digital Editions for managing digital publications. Attackers could exploit this weakness by placing malicious DLL files in strategic locations within the application's search path, such as the application directory or other directories that are prioritized in the library loading sequence. Successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the application. The impact extends beyond individual systems to potentially affect enterprise environments where Adobe Digital Editions might be deployed across multiple machines. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter, where adversaries leverage legitimate system tools to execute malicious code through compromised library loading mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of Adobe Digital Editions to version 4.5.5 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the insecure library loading vulnerability. Organizations should also implement application whitelisting policies to restrict which libraries can be loaded by the application, particularly in enterprise environments where such controls can prevent exploitation attempts. System administrators should monitor for suspicious library loading patterns and implement security controls such as Windows Defender Application Control or similar technologies to prevent unauthorized library execution. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of downloading content from untrusted sources and should avoid installing software from unknown vendors. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper library loading security practices and highlights how seemingly minor implementation flaws can result in severe security consequences, making it essential for developers to follow secure coding practices and for organizations to maintain current security patches.