CVE-2017-6189 in Kindle
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Amazon Kindle for PC before 1.19 allows local users to execute arbitrary code and conduct DLL hijacking attacks via a Trojan horse DLL in the current working directory of the Kindle Setup installer.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/02/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-6189 represents a critical untrusted search path weakness in Amazon Kindle for PC versions prior to 1.19, creating a significant security risk for end-user systems. This flaw specifically affects the Kindle Setup installer's handling of dynamic link library resolution, where the installer fails to properly validate or restrict the search path for loading shared libraries. The vulnerability stems from the installer's tendency to search for required DLL files in the current working directory before examining system directories, which creates an exploitable condition where malicious actors can place specially crafted DLL files in the same directory as the installer.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with common software security flaws categorized under CWE-427, which addresses uncontrolled search path dependencies. Attackers can leverage this weakness by placing a malicious DLL file with the same name as a legitimate system DLL in the directory where the Kindle Setup installer is executed. When the installer attempts to load the required library, it inadvertently loads the attacker-controlled DLL instead of the legitimate system component, enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the user running the installer. This type of attack falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, and T1068 for exploit for local privilege escalation.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-6189 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides a pathway for persistent system compromise and privilege escalation. Local users who have access to the system can leverage this vulnerability to establish footholds for more sophisticated attacks, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the installation phase, where users may have elevated privileges or where the installer's execution context provides access to sensitive system resources. Attackers can use this technique to bypass standard security controls such as application whitelisting, as the malicious DLL is loaded through legitimate system mechanisms rather than direct file injection.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The primary solution involves updating to Amazon Kindle for PC version 1.19 or later, which implements proper DLL search path validation and prevents loading of untrusted libraries from the current working directory. Organizations should also implement application control policies to restrict execution of setup installers from untrusted directories, and establish strict file system permissions to prevent unauthorized DLL placement. The ATT&CK framework recommends implementing process monitoring to detect suspicious DLL loading patterns, while security professionals should consider deploying endpoint detection and response solutions that can identify and block DLL hijacking attempts. Additionally, regular security assessments should verify that installation processes properly implement secure library loading practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other software components.