CVE-2022-28779 in Android USB Driver Windows Installer
Summary
by MITRE • 04/12/2022
Uncontrolled search path element vulnerability in Samsung Android USB Driver windows installer program prior to version 1.7.50 allows attacker to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/14/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-28779 represents a critical uncontrolled search path element flaw within the Samsung Android USB Driver Windows installer program. This issue affects versions prior to 1.7.50 and creates a significant security risk by allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of the Windows search path during the installation process, where the installer fails to properly validate or sanitize the paths used to locate required components. This misconfiguration enables malicious actors to manipulate the installation flow by placing malicious files in strategic locations that the installer will subsequently load and execute without proper verification.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-427 Uncontrolled Search Path Element, which occurs when a program searches for files using a path that includes user-controlled elements without proper sanitization. The Samsung Android USB Driver installer operates under the assumption that all files in its search path are legitimate, creating an attack surface where an adversary can place malicious DLLs or executables in directories that are prioritized in the search order. This behavior violates fundamental security principles of least privilege and path validation, as the installer does not enforce proper access controls or file integrity checks before executing code from potentially compromised locations. The flaw essentially allows for privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the installer process, which typically runs with elevated permissions.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-28779 extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold on Windows systems. When exploited, this vulnerability can enable full system compromise through various attack vectors including privilege escalation, lateral movement, and data exfiltration. The attacker can leverage this vulnerability to install backdoors, modify system configurations, or establish persistent access to the compromised system. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where Samsung Android USB Drivers are commonly deployed across multiple devices, potentially allowing attackers to gain access to numerous systems simultaneously. The attack surface is further expanded by the fact that many users may not be aware of the installer's behavior or the potential risks associated with uncontrolled search paths.
Security mitigations for CVE-2022-28779 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The most direct solution involves updating to Samsung Android USB Driver version 1.7.50 or later, which includes proper path validation and sanitization mechanisms. Organizations should implement strict software update policies to ensure all systems receive the latest security patches promptly. Additionally, system administrators should conduct thorough security assessments of the Windows search path configuration, ensuring that user-writable directories are not prioritized in the system path. The implementation of application whitelisting policies can prevent unauthorized executables from running, while monitoring and logging of installer activities can help detect potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability also highlights the importance of following the principle of least privilege and implementing proper access controls for system installation processes, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1068 Privilege Escalation through the exploitation of uncontrolled search paths. Organizations should also consider implementing security awareness training to educate users about the risks associated with installing third-party software and the potential consequences of uncontrolled search path vulnerabilities.