CVE-2018-0562 in SoundEngine Free
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Installer of SoundEngine Free ver.5.21 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 • 01/25/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-0562 represents a critical untrusted search path weakness within the SoundEngine Free installer component version 5.21 and earlier. This flaw manifests in the installer's improper handling of dynamic link library loading sequences, where the system searches for required libraries in a predictable but insecure order that includes user-writable directories. The vulnerability stems from the installer's failure to implement proper security controls during the library resolution process, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to place specially crafted DLL files in locations that the installer will prioritize during execution. This issue directly aligns with CWE-426, which describes the insecure loading of dynamic links libraries, and represents a classic privilege escalation vector through path manipulation attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker places a malicious DLL file in a directory that appears earlier in the system's search path than the legitimate SoundEngine libraries. During the installation process, the installer loads this malicious component instead of the intended legitimate library, allowing the attacker to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the installer process. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the system level during installation, potentially granting attackers elevated privileges that could be leveraged for further compromise. This type of attack falls under the ATT&CK technique T1068, which covers 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation' and specifically targets the manipulation of dynamic link library loading behavior.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-0562 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it creates a persistent backdoor opportunity within the system's installation infrastructure. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistence mechanisms, deploy additional malware, or conduct reconnaissance activities without requiring direct user interaction or elevated privileges. The vulnerability affects systems where the SoundEngine Free software is installed or where the installer is executed, potentially compromising entire networks if multiple systems are vulnerable. Organizations using affected versions should consider the implications of this flaw in their security posture, as it represents an attack surface that can be exploited during routine software installation activities. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by its ability to remain undetected for extended periods, as the malicious DLL execution occurs during legitimate installation processes that may not be closely monitored.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-0562 focus on addressing the root cause through proper library loading practices and system hardening. Organizations should immediately upgrade to SoundEngine Free versions that have addressed this vulnerability, as the manufacturer has likely implemented proper DLL loading mechanisms that prevent insecure path resolution. System administrators should implement application whitelisting policies to restrict which executables can run during installation processes, and should ensure that the installer's search path is properly configured to prioritize system directories over user-writable locations. The implementation of secure coding practices including the use of absolute paths for library loading, proper DLL verification mechanisms, and regular security audits of installation processes can prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring. Additionally, monitoring for suspicious installation activities and implementing proper access controls on system directories can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. This vulnerability underscores the importance of adhering to security best practices during software development, particularly around library loading and path resolution mechanisms that are fundamental to system security.