CVE-2020-6788 in Configuration Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Loading a DLL through an Uncontrolled Search Path Element in the Bosch Configuration Manager installer up to and including version 7.21.0078 potentially allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code on a victim's system. A prerequisite is that the victim is tricked into placing a malicious DLL in the same directory where the installer is started from.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/05/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-6788 represents a critical security flaw in the Bosch Configuration Manager installer software affecting versions up to and including 7.21.0078. This issue stems from improper handling of dynamic link library loading mechanisms within the installation process, creating a pathway for privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the installer processes DLL files through an uncontrolled search path element, which allows attackers to manipulate the software's behavior by placing malicious components in strategic locations. The flaw operates under the principle of DLL hijacking, where the installer's search path resolution mechanism fails to properly validate or restrict the locations from which DLLs can be loaded, creating an attack surface that can be exploited by adversaries with physical access to target systems or those who can influence the installation environment.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the installer's failure to implement proper DLL search path security controls, which directly maps to CWE-778 - Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command. When the installer executes, it follows a predictable search order for DLL resolution that includes the current working directory, potentially allowing an attacker to place a malicious DLL with the same name as a legitimate dependency. This behavior creates a dangerous condition where the system loads the attacker-controlled DLL instead of the intended legitimate library, enabling code execution with the privileges of the installer process. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires minimal user interaction beyond the initial installation process, making it a prime candidate for social engineering attacks where victims are tricked into executing the installer from a directory containing malicious components. The attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 - Command and Scripting Interpreter, as the execution of arbitrary code occurs through legitimate system mechanisms that are improperly secured.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-6788 extends beyond simple privilege escalation to potentially enable full system compromise when combined with other attack vectors. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute malicious code with the privileges of the installer process, which typically runs with elevated permissions during system configuration tasks. This creates opportunities for persistent threat actors to establish backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, or deploy additional malware components that can maintain access to the compromised system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where system administrators regularly use configuration management tools, as successful exploitation could provide attackers with access to critical infrastructure components. The attack requires only that a victim execute the installer from a directory containing a malicious DLL, which can be achieved through various social engineering techniques or by compromising the installation environment through other means. The implications of this vulnerability are further amplified by the fact that it affects software commonly used in industrial control systems and building automation environments, where system integrity and security are paramount for operational continuity and safety.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-6788 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The most effective immediate solution involves updating to a patched version of the Bosch Configuration Manager software that properly implements DLL search path security controls and validates the integrity of loaded libraries. Organizations should also implement strict access controls on installation directories and ensure that only authorized personnel can execute installation processes. The implementation of application whitelisting policies can prevent unauthorized DLLs from executing in the context of the installer, while also providing broader protection against similar vulnerabilities. Additionally, system administrators should conduct regular security assessments of installation environments to identify and remove any unauthorized files that could be used in such attacks. The remediation process should include network monitoring to detect suspicious installation activities and ensure that all systems are running patched versions of the software. Organizations should also consider implementing security awareness training to help users recognize social engineering attempts that could lead to exploitation of this vulnerability, as the attack requires user interaction to be successful. Proper implementation of these controls aligns with security frameworks such as NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 requirements for secure software development and system configuration management.