CVE-2018-0609 in LINE
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in LINE for Windows versions before 5.8.0 allows an attacker to gain privileges via a Trojan horse DLL in an unspecified directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/20/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-0609 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within the LINE messaging application for Windows platforms. This flaw affects versions prior to 5.8.0 and stems from the application's improper handling of dynamic link library loading processes. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the application searches for required libraries in directories that are not properly validated or secured, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to place Trojan horse DLL files in strategic locations within the filesystem.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-427, which describes uncontrolled search path dependencies where an application searches for libraries in directories that are not properly secured or validated. The LINE application fails to implement proper security controls during the dynamic library loading process, allowing attackers to manipulate the search path and inject malicious code. When the legitimate application attempts to load a required DLL, it inadvertently loads the attacker-controlled malicious DLL instead of the intended legitimate library, resulting in arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the victim user.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability enables privilege escalation attacks where attackers can execute malicious code with the same privileges as the LINE application user. The attack vector exploits the trust relationship between the application and its environment, leveraging the application's reliance on standard library search paths without proper validation. This creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited across multiple user sessions and potentially escalate to system-level privileges depending on the target user's access rights. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it requires no user interaction beyond the initial application execution, making it a stealthy and effective attack method.
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass broader security implications within enterprise environments where LINE is commonly deployed. Organizations using affected versions face potential data exfiltration, system compromise, and lateral movement opportunities for attackers who successfully exploit this flaw. The vulnerability also demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper library loading mechanisms, as highlighted in various ATT&CK framework techniques related to privilege escalation and execution through library loading. Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching to version 5.8.0 or later, implementation of proper library search path validation, and deployment of application whitelisting controls to prevent unauthorized DLL loading. Additionally, security awareness training for users regarding the dangers of executing unknown software and regular security assessments of third-party applications can help reduce the attack surface and prevent successful exploitation attempts.