CVE-2019-3726 in Update Package Framework
Summary
by MITRE
An Uncontrolled Search Path Vulnerability is applicable to the following: Dell Update Package (DUP) Framework file versions prior to 19.1.0.413, and Framework file versions prior to 103.4.6.69 used in Dell EMC Servers. Dell Update Package (DUP) Framework file versions prior to 3.8.3.67 used in Dell Client Platforms. The vulnerability is limited to the DUP framework during the time window when a DUP is being executed by an administrator. During this time window, a locally authenticated low privilege malicious user potentially could exploit this vulnerability by tricking an administrator into running a trusted binary, causing it to load a malicious DLL and allowing the attacker to execute arbitrary code on the victim system. The vulnerability does not affect the actual binary payload that the DUP delivers.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2023
The vulnerability described in CVE-2019-3726 represents an uncontrolled search path issue within Dell's Update Package (DUP) Framework, a critical component used across Dell EMC servers and client platforms for system updates. This flaw manifests in specific versions of the DUP framework where the software fails to properly validate the search paths used when loading dynamic link libraries. The vulnerability specifically impacts DUP Framework file versions prior to 19.1.0.413 for EMC servers, versions prior to 103.4.6.69 for server platforms, and versions prior to 3.8.3.67 for client platforms, creating a persistent security weakness that affects Dell's update infrastructure across multiple product lines.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs during the execution window of a DUP package when an administrator is actively running the update process. This creates a window of opportunity for a malicious user with local authentication privileges to manipulate the system's DLL loading behavior. The attack vector relies on social engineering tactics where the malicious user tricks an administrator into executing a trusted binary that has been compromised or modified to load a malicious DLL. This technique leverages the principle of DLL hijacking, where the system loads a malicious library instead of the legitimate one due to improper search path handling. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-427, which specifically addresses Uncontrolled Search Path, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as the execution of arbitrary code enables further malicious activities. The attack does not compromise the actual update payload but rather exploits the framework's trust model during execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it creates a persistent backdoor for attackers who can gain code execution with administrator privileges during the update process. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires minimal user interaction beyond convincing an administrator to run a trusted update process, making it an attractive target for attackers. The local authentication requirement means that attackers must first gain access to a system with low privilege accounts, but once achieved, they can leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges and execute malicious code. The vulnerability affects system integrity and availability as it can be used to install malware, modify system configurations, or create persistent access points. The timeframe limitation of the vulnerability during DUP execution means that defenders must monitor update processes and ensure that administrators only execute trusted packages, making this a challenging vulnerability to defend against in enterprise environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-3726 should focus on immediate patching of affected DUP framework versions across all Dell EMC servers and client platforms. Organizations must ensure that all systems are updated to the patched versions that address the uncontrolled search path issue, specifically versions 19.1.0.413 or later for EMC servers, 103.4.6.69 or later for server platforms, and 3.8.3.67 or later for client platforms. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit local authentication access to update processes, while monitoring systems should be deployed to detect suspicious update activities. Administrators should be trained to recognize social engineering attempts and verify the authenticity of update packages before execution, implementing a principle of least privilege for update operations. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting solutions can prevent unauthorized binaries from executing during update processes, and regular security audits should verify that no malicious DLLs have been loaded into the system. The vulnerability's nature as an uncontrolled search path issue also suggests that system hardening measures should include proper DLL search path configuration and the implementation of secure coding practices that prevent similar issues in future software development cycles.