CVE-2022-23909 in Connector Service
Summary
by MITRE • 04/05/2022
There is an unquoted service path in Sherpa Connector Service (SherpaConnectorService.exe) 2020.2.20328.2050. This might allow a local user to escalate privileges by creating a "C:\Program Files\Sherpa Software\Sherpa.exe" file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-23909 represents a critical privilege escalation weakness within the Sherpa Connector Service software version 2020.2.20328.2050. This issue stems from an improper service path configuration that creates an exploitable condition in the Windows service architecture. The vulnerability specifically affects the SherpaConnectorService.exe executable which is installed in the Program Files directory structure, making it a prime target for local privilege escalation attacks.
The technical flaw manifests through an unquoted service path configuration that allows attackers to place malicious executables in directories that are searched before the legitimate service executable. When the service attempts to start, it follows the path search order and executes the attacker-controlled binary instead of the intended SherpaConnectorService.exe. This particular vulnerability falls under CWE-428, which describes an unquoted service path that enables privilege escalation through path injection attacks. The service path configuration does not properly quote the executable path, allowing Windows to interpret the path components separately and execute files from unintended locations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for organizations running the affected Sherpa Connector Service software. A local attacker with basic user privileges can exploit this weakness to elevate their access level to system level privileges. The attack vector requires the creation of a malicious executable at a specific location C:\Program Files\Sherpa Software\Sherpa.exe, which would then be executed when the service starts or restarts. This privilege escalation capability enables attackers to gain full system control, access sensitive data, install additional malware, or establish persistent backdoors within the compromised system.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly under the privilege escalation technique T1068 which covers "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation." The attack chain typically involves local user access followed by exploitation of service path vulnerabilities to achieve system-level privileges. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including proper service path quoting, regular privilege reviews, and monitoring for unauthorized file creation in Program Files directories. Additionally, the vulnerability highlights the importance of following secure coding practices and service configuration guidelines as outlined in various security standards including ISO 27001 and NIST cybersecurity frameworks. The remediation process should involve updating to the patched version of Sherpa Connector Service or implementing proper path quoting for the service installation to prevent exploitation of this weakness.