CVE-2022-26511 in WPS Presentation
Summary
by MITRE • 03/17/2022
WPS Presentation 11.8.0.5745 insecurely load d3dx9_41.dll when opening .pps files('current directory type' DLL loading).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/20/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-26511 affects WPS Presentation version 11.8.0.5745 and represents a critical insecure dynamic link library loading issue that occurs when processing .pps presentation files. This flaw demonstrates a classic insecure DLL loading vulnerability where the application fails to properly validate the source and location of dynamically loaded libraries, creating a path for malicious code execution through privilege escalation attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the application's failure to enforce secure DLL loading practices when encountering .pps files. When WPS Presentation processes these presentation files, it attempts to load the d3dx9_41.dll library from the current working directory without first verifying its authenticity or source. This behavior aligns with CWE-426 Untrusted Search Path vulnerability classification, where applications search for libraries in predictable locations without proper validation mechanisms. The flaw essentially allows an attacker to place a malicious version of d3dx9_41.dll in the same directory as a targeted .pps file, which the application will then execute instead of the legitimate system library.
This vulnerability creates significant operational impact as it enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running WPS Presentation. The attack vector requires minimal user interaction since simply opening a malicious .pps file can trigger the exploit, making it particularly dangerous in targeted phishing campaigns or social engineering attacks. The vulnerability exists in the context of Windows operating systems where d3dx9_41.dll is a legitimate DirectX component that applications commonly expect to find in standard locations. The exploitation process follows ATT&CK technique T1059.001 Command and Scripting Interpreter where malicious code executes through the application's normal file processing workflow.
The security implications extend beyond simple code execution as this vulnerability can be leveraged for privilege escalation attacks, lateral movement within networks, and persistent access to compromised systems. Attackers can craft malicious .pps files that contain embedded references to malicious DLLs, effectively bypassing standard security controls that might otherwise prevent execution. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where users may open presentation files from untrusted sources, and where WPS Presentation is commonly used for document sharing and collaboration. The vulnerability demonstrates poor software security practices related to dynamic library loading and highlights the importance of implementing secure coding practices such as using absolute paths for library loading, implementing proper DLL verification mechanisms, and employing modern security features like DEP and ASLR to mitigate exploitation success rates. Organizations should immediately update to patched versions of WPS Presentation, implement strict file access controls, and monitor for suspicious file execution patterns to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.
The vulnerability represents a significant risk to organizations relying on WPS Presentation for document processing, as it can be exploited through simple user interaction with malicious files. This flaw underscores the critical importance of secure coding practices in commercial software applications and demonstrates how seemingly benign file processing operations can become attack vectors when proper security controls are not implemented. The vulnerability's classification as a DLL loading issue aligns with established security frameworks that emphasize the need for proper library validation and secure search path implementation in software applications.