CVE-2018-0648 in Desktop App
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in installer of ChatWork Desktop App for Windows 2.3.0 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 • 03/21/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-0648 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within the ChatWork Desktop Application installer for Windows versions 2.3.0 and earlier. This flaw resides in the installer component's handling of dynamic link library loading processes, creating a pathway for privilege escalation attacks through malicious code injection. The vulnerability stems from the installer's failure to properly validate or sanitize the search path used when loading required system libraries, allowing an attacker to place a malicious DLL in a directory that gets prioritized in the library resolution process.
This security weakness operates under the broader category of CWE-426 Untrusted Search Path, which specifically addresses the scenario where applications fail to properly validate the locations from which they load dynamic libraries. The vulnerability enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges by leveraging the installer's trust in the default system search order. When the installer runs and attempts to load necessary DLLs, it follows a predictable path that may include directories writable by unprivileged users, creating an opportunity for attackers to place malicious libraries that will be executed with the privileges of the installer process.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-0648 is significant as it allows for privilege escalation attacks that can result in full system compromise. An attacker who gains access to a victim's system can exploit this vulnerability by placing a specially crafted Trojan horse DLL in a directory that will be searched before legitimate system libraries. This attack vector is particularly dangerous because it leverages the installer process, which typically runs with elevated privileges, thereby bypassing normal user permission boundaries. The vulnerability affects the Windows desktop environment where the ChatWork application is installed, potentially allowing attackers to execute malicious code with system-level privileges.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper input validation and secure library loading practices. Organizations should ensure that all applications, particularly installers, use absolute paths when loading dynamic libraries and avoid relying on the default system search order. The remediation involves updating to ChatWork Desktop App version 2.3.1 or later, which addresses this specific vulnerability through proper path validation and library loading mechanisms. Additionally, system administrators should implement least privilege principles and monitor for unauthorized DLL placement in system directories. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, demonstrating how untrusted search path vulnerabilities can be exploited to achieve elevated system access.