CVE-2018-13102 in AnyDesk
Summary
by MITRE
AnyDesk before "12.06.2018 - 4.1.3" on Windows 7 SP1 has a DLL preloading vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/24/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-13102 represents a critical DLL preloading flaw affecting AnyDesk software versions prior to 4.1.3 released on December 6, 2018, specifically impacting Windows 7 SP1 systems. This vulnerability stems from the improper handling of dynamic link library loading sequences within the AnyDesk application, creating opportunities for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code through crafted DLL files. The flaw manifests when the application loads libraries from predictable locations without proper validation of the library source, allowing attackers to place malicious DLLs in directories where the legitimate software expects to find supporting components.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-426, which describes the insecure loading of dynamic libraries, and represents a classic preloading attack vector that has been documented in numerous security advisories. The vulnerability operates under the principle that applications loading DLLs from the current working directory or other predictable locations without proper security controls can be manipulated by adversaries who place malicious libraries in those locations. This particular implementation affects Windows 7 SP1 systems where the application's loading behavior creates predictable paths for library resolution, making the attack surface more accessible to threat actors.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations relying on AnyDesk for remote desktop management, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise without requiring user interaction. The attack typically requires the victim to run the vulnerable AnyDesk application while a malicious DLL is present in a directory that the application will search during execution. This scenario can be achieved through social engineering, targeted attacks on specific user directories, or by compromising systems where the application is installed with elevated privileges. The impact extends beyond simple code execution to potentially enable privilege escalation and lateral movement within network environments.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability include immediate patching to AnyDesk version 4.1.3 or later, which addresses the improper DLL loading behavior through proper library path validation and secure loading practices. Organizations should implement additional controls such as restricting write permissions to application directories, monitoring for suspicious DLL loading patterns, and employing application whitelisting solutions to prevent execution of unauthorized libraries. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Practices and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter execution, where attackers may leverage the compromised system to establish persistence or conduct further reconnaissance activities. System administrators should also consider implementing security awareness training to prevent users from inadvertently placing malicious files in locations where the application might load them as dependencies.