CVE-2018-12449 in Whale Browser
Summary
by MITRE
The Whale browser installer 0.4.3.0 and earlier versions allows DLL hijacking.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/01/2020
The Whale browser installer version 0.4.3.0 and earlier contains a critical vulnerability that enables malicious actors to perform DLL hijacking attacks. This flaw arises from improper handling of dynamic link library loading sequences during the installation process, creating opportunities for attackers to place malicious DLL files in locations where the installer will load them automatically. The vulnerability specifically affects the installer component rather than the browser itself, making it particularly concerning as it can be exploited during system-wide installation activities. The issue stems from the installer's failure to properly validate or restrict the search paths used when loading external libraries, allowing attackers to inject code through carefully placed malicious files.
This vulnerability operates under the CWE-426 weakness category, which specifically addresses the execution of untrusted code through insecure library loading mechanisms. The technical flaw manifests when the installer processes dependencies without implementing proper security controls such as explicit path resolution or digital signature verification of loaded libraries. Attackers can exploit this by placing malicious DLL files in directories that appear earlier in the Windows library search order, causing the installer to execute unauthorized code with the privileges of the installing user. The attack vector leverages the standard Windows DLL search order behavior where the system first looks in the application directory, followed by system directories, and then the current working directory, creating multiple potential injection points.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as successful exploitation can lead to privilege escalation and persistent system compromise. When an attacker successfully hijacks a DLL during installation, they can execute malicious code with the same privileges as the installer process, potentially gaining administrative access to the target system. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where browser installations may be performed with elevated privileges, and it can be exploited through various attack scenarios including social engineering campaigns that trick users into installing malicious software. The threat landscape for such vulnerabilities is further enhanced by the fact that many organizations may not regularly update their browser installations, leaving systems exposed for extended periods.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through version updates to Whale browser installer versions that address the DLL loading issue. System administrators should implement strict library loading policies and utilize tools such as application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized DLL execution. The implementation of proper DLL search order controls and enhanced installer security measures including digital signature verification and explicit path resolution can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. Organizations should also consider deploying monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous DLL loading behaviors and maintain regular security assessments to identify potential attack vectors. According to ATT&CK framework techniques, this vulnerability maps to T1059.001 for execution through command-line interfaces and T1546.009 for DLL side-loading, making it a critical target for both preventive and detective security controls. The vulnerability also aligns with the broader category of privilege escalation techniques that leverage installer weaknesses, emphasizing the importance of secure software development practices and proper access controls during installation processes.