CVE-2019-6825 in ProClima
Summary
by MITRE
A CWE-427: Uncontrolled Search Path Element vulnerability exists in ProClima (all versions prior to version 8.0.0) which could allow a malicious DLL file, with the same name of any resident DLLs inside the software installation, to execute arbitrary code in all versions of ProClima prior to version 8.0.0.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/26/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-6825 represents a critical security flaw in ProClima software affecting all versions prior to 8.0.0. This issue falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-427, which specifically addresses uncontrolled search path elements in software applications. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of dynamic link library loading mechanisms within the application's execution environment. When ProClima attempts to load DLL files, it does not properly validate or control the search paths used to locate these essential components, creating an exploitable condition that malicious actors can leverage for code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when a malicious actor places a specially crafted DLL file with the same name as legitimate DLLs present in the ProClima installation directory. Due to the uncontrolled search path behavior, the application will load the malicious DLL instead of the intended legitimate one, allowing arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the running process. This type of attack is particularly dangerous because it exploits the trust relationship between the application and its installed components, requiring no additional privileges beyond those normally granted to the application itself. The vulnerability essentially creates a race condition or path manipulation scenario where the application's dynamic loading mechanism is bypassed through careful placement of malicious files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold within systems running affected ProClima versions. This weakness can be exploited to escalate privileges, establish backdoors, or perform lateral movement within network environments where the software is deployed. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal user interaction or specialized knowledge, making it accessible to threat actors with basic technical skills. The vulnerability also impacts the software supply chain security posture, as it allows attackers to compromise systems through seemingly legitimate software components, potentially affecting multiple users or organizations simultaneously.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-6825 should prioritize immediate software updates to version 8.0.0 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the uncontrolled search path behavior. Organizations should implement strict file access controls and monitoring for the ProClima installation directories, particularly focusing on unauthorized DLL file placements. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.001 for command and script interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, indicating that defenders should monitor for suspicious process creation and file modification activities. Additional protective measures include implementing application whitelisting policies, conducting regular security audits of software installation directories, and ensuring proper file permissions are enforced to prevent unauthorized DLL injection attempts. Network segmentation and monitoring solutions should also be deployed to detect anomalous behavior indicative of successful exploitation attempts, as the vulnerability's impact can extend to broader system compromise beyond the initial attack surface.