CVE-2020-8317 in Drivers Management
Summary
by MITRE
A DLL search path vulnerability was reported in Lenovo Drivers Management prior to version 2.7.1128.1046 that could allow an authenticated user to execute code with elevated privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/05/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-8317 represents a critical DLL search path vulnerability within Lenovo Drivers Management software, specifically affecting versions prior to 2.7.1128.1046. This flaw exists in the software's dynamic link library loading mechanism, where the application fails to properly validate the source of dynamically loaded libraries during the execution process. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of the Windows DLL search order, which allows an attacker to manipulate the library loading sequence and potentially execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the application's failure to specify absolute paths when loading DLLs, instead relying on the system's default search order. When a user authenticates to the Lenovo Drivers Management application, the software processes driver updates and system modifications that require loading additional libraries. An attacker with local access can place a malicious DLL file in a directory that appears earlier in the Windows search path, causing the legitimate application to load and execute the malicious code instead of the intended library. This behavior aligns with CWE-426, which describes the insecure loading of dynamic libraries due to improper path handling.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides a pathway for privilege escalation attacks. An authenticated user who can manipulate the system's DLL search path can effectively elevate their privileges to the level of the application itself, potentially gaining access to sensitive system resources or performing administrative actions. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where Lenovo Drivers Management may be used to manage critical system components, as it could allow attackers to compromise entire systems through a single vulnerable component. The attack vector requires local system access and authentication, making it suitable for both insider threat scenarios and post-compromise lateral movement within networks.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2020-8317 primarily focuses on updating to Lenovo Drivers Management version 2.7.1128.1046 or later, which implements proper DLL loading practices and eliminates the insecure search path behavior. Organizations should also implement additional security measures such as enabling Windows Defender Application Control or AppLocker policies to restrict which DLLs can be loaded by the application. System administrators should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the vulnerable software and ensure proper patch management procedures are in place. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059.001 (Command and Scripting Interpreter) and T1068 (Exploitation for Privilege Escalation) techniques, as it enables both code execution and privilege elevation through legitimate system tools. The vulnerability also intersects with T1546.009 (Component Firmware) and T1546.012 (Rundll32) attack techniques, as it leverages Windows system components to achieve its malicious objectives.