CVE-2022-33711 in USB Driver Windows Installer for Mobile Phones
Summary
by MITRE • 07/12/2022
Improper validation of integrity check vulnerability in Samsung USB Driver Windows Installer for Mobile Phones prior to version 1.7.56.0 allows local attackers to delete arbitrary directory using directory junction.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/23/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-33711 represents a critical integrity validation flaw within the Samsung USB Driver Windows Installer for Mobile Phones software. This issue affects versions prior to 1.7.56.0 and stems from insufficient validation mechanisms that fail to properly verify the integrity of directory operations during the installation process. The flaw specifically manifests when the installer handles directory junctions, which are symbolic links that redirect file system operations to different locations within the Windows file system. The vulnerability creates a path traversal condition where local attackers can manipulate the installation process to target arbitrary directories for deletion.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the improper handling of directory junctions during the Windows installer execution. When the Samsung USB Driver installer processes directory operations, it fails to validate whether the target directories are legitimate or if they represent maliciously crafted junction points. This validation gap allows attackers to craft specific installation scenarios where directory junctions are created or modified in ways that can lead to arbitrary directory deletion. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates at the installer level, giving attackers elevated privileges to manipulate the file system structure. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, and CWE-23, which covers improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, as the installer fails to properly restrict directory operations.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability poses significant risks to Windows systems running affected Samsung USB Driver versions. Local attackers with minimal privileges can leverage this flaw to delete critical system directories or user data directories, potentially causing system instability or data loss. The impact extends beyond simple file deletion as attackers can target system directories that may contain important registry entries, configuration files, or other critical components. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including social engineering to trick users into installing malicious versions of the driver, or through compromised systems where attackers already have local access. This issue creates a persistent threat that can be exploited repeatedly, as the vulnerability exists in the installer logic rather than being a temporary condition.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2022-33711 requires immediate action to update to Samsung USB Driver Windows Installer version 1.7.56.0 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the integrity validation flaw. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management procedures to ensure all affected systems receive the update promptly. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security controls such as restricted user permissions and enhanced monitoring of installation activities to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and integrity checking in installer applications, particularly those that operate with elevated privileges. Security teams should review their existing security controls to ensure that installation processes are properly validated and that directory operations are appropriately restricted to prevent similar issues in other software components. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for robust integrity validation mechanisms in system-level software installations and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1218.001 which covers Windows Installer, highlighting the importance of securing installation processes against manipulation.