CVE-2020-7315 in McAfee
Summary
by MITRE
DLL Injection Vulnerability in McAfee Agent (MA) for Windows prior to 5.6.6 allows local users to execute arbitrary code via careful placement of a malicious DLL.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/11/2020
The CVE-2020-7315 vulnerability represents a critical dll injection flaw within McAfee Agent version 5.6.5 and earlier releases for windows operating systems. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of dynamic link library loading mechanisms within the McAfee Agent architecture, creating an exploitable condition that allows local attackers to elevate privileges and execute malicious code. The flaw specifically manifests when the McAfee Agent processes and loads external dll files without adequate validation of their authenticity or source, enabling attackers to place malicious libraries in strategic locations where they will be loaded by the agent process. This issue falls under the broader category of insecure library loading practices that are commonly categorized as CWE-426, which addresses the execution of untrusted code through improper library loading. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it leverages the legitimate functionality of the McAfee Agent to achieve unauthorized code execution, making detection and prevention more challenging for security teams.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the trust model inherent in the McAfee Agent's dll loading process. When the agent executes, it searches through specific system paths to locate required libraries, and if a malicious dll is placed in one of these directories before the legitimate dll, the system will load and execute the malicious code. This type of attack aligns with the attack pattern described in the attack technique T1055.001 within the MITRE ATT&CK framework, which covers process injection techniques through dynamic link library injection. The vulnerability is classified as a local privilege escalation vector because the McAfee Agent typically runs with elevated privileges, allowing the injected code to operate at the same elevated level as the agent itself. This creates a pathway for attackers to bypass standard user access controls and potentially gain administrative access to the compromised system.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-7315 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold within the compromised environment. Since the McAfee Agent is often deployed across enterprise environments and runs continuously with elevated privileges, successful exploitation can result in long-term access to sensitive systems. The vulnerability affects organizations that have not upgraded to McAfee Agent version 5.6.6 or later, leaving them exposed to potential compromise through simple file placement attacks. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where McAfee agents are deployed across multiple systems, as a successful attack on one system can potentially provide attackers with access to other systems within the network. The impact is further amplified by the fact that the attack requires minimal sophistication and can be executed by attackers with basic local access, making it an attractive target for both insider threats and external attackers who have gained initial access to a system.
Organizations should immediately implement the remediation measures provided by McAfee, including upgrading to version 5.6.6 or later of the McAfee Agent to address this vulnerability. Additional mitigations should include implementing strict file system permissions on directories where McAfee Agent loads libraries, monitoring for unusual dll loading patterns, and conducting regular security assessments of McAfee agent installations. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices, particularly when dealing with dynamic library loading mechanisms. Security teams should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict which dll files can be loaded by the McAfee Agent process, reducing the attack surface for this type of vulnerability. Regular security awareness training for system administrators regarding the risks of placing untrusted files in system directories can also help prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities. Organizations should also review their overall security posture to ensure that other security products and agents do not exhibit similar insecure library loading behaviors that could create additional attack vectors within their environment.