CVE-2018-0692 in Baidu
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Baidu Browser Version 43.23.1000.500 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 • 04/13/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-0692 represents a critical untrusted search path issue within Baidu Browser version 43.23.1000.500 and earlier installations. This flaw stems from the browser's improper handling of dynamic link library loading mechanisms, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. The vulnerability manifests when the browser attempts to load necessary DLL components from directories that are not properly validated or secured, allowing attackers to place malicious DLL files in strategic locations within the file system. This particular weakness aligns with CWE-426, which specifically addresses the execution of untrusted code through insecure search paths, making it a prime target for privilege escalation attacks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a Trojan horse attack vector where an attacker places a malicious DLL file in a directory that the browser searches before accessing legitimate system directories. When the browser attempts to load a required library component, it inadvertently loads the attacker-controlled DLL instead of the legitimate one. This behavior represents a classic case of DLL hijacking, where the system's dynamic loading mechanism is manipulated to load unauthorized code. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that the browser typically runs with elevated privileges, potentially allowing the malicious code to execute with system-level access. This flaw directly maps to several ATT&CK techniques including privilege escalation through DLL hijacking and execution through dynamic link library loading.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-0692 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a potential pathway to establish persistent access within affected systems. Once the malicious DLL is loaded, the attacker can perform actions such as modifying browser behavior, capturing user credentials, or installing additional malware components. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal user interaction beyond the normal browser usage patterns, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users may inadvertently trigger the malicious code loading process. This threat is further compounded by the widespread use of Baidu Browser in regions where the software maintains significant market share, potentially exposing thousands of systems to coordinated attacks. Organizations running affected versions of the browser face a heightened risk of data breaches and system compromise, as the vulnerability can be leveraged for reconnaissance activities and lateral movement within networks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-0692 should prioritize immediate patching of affected Baidu Browser installations to the latest available version that addresses the untrusted search path vulnerability. System administrators should implement strict directory access controls and monitor for unauthorized DLL file placements in common browser search paths. The implementation of application whitelisting policies can prevent execution of unauthorized DLL files, while regular security audits should verify that browser components are loaded only from trusted directories. Additionally, network monitoring solutions should be configured to detect suspicious DLL loading patterns and unauthorized file modifications in system directories. Organizations should also consider deploying behavioral monitoring tools that can identify anomalous DLL loading activities indicative of this specific vulnerability exploitation. The remediation process must include comprehensive system scanning to identify any potential compromise from prior exploitation attempts, and security awareness training should be provided to users to prevent social engineering attacks that might accompany DLL hijacking attempts.