CVE-2017-11159 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Synology Photo Station Uploader before version 1.4.2-084 on Windows has untrusted search path vulnerabilities that can lead to arbitrary code execution and DLL hijacking attacks.

Understanding CVE-2017-11159

This CVE involves vulnerabilities in the installer of Synology Photo Station Uploader that can be exploited by local attackers.

What is CVE-2017-11159?

The installer in Synology Photo Station Uploader before version 1.4.2-084 on Windows contains untrusted search path vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities enable local attackers to execute arbitrary code and perform DLL hijacking attacks by using a Trojan horse in the current working directory.

The Impact of CVE-2017-11159

The vulnerabilities allow attackers to execute arbitrary code and conduct DLL hijacking attacks, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control of the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-11159

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

Multiple untrusted search path vulnerabilities in the installer of Synology Photo Station Uploader before 1.4.2-084 on Windows allow local attackers to execute arbitrary code and conduct DLL hijacking attacks using specific files in the current working directory.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Photo Station Uploader
Vendor: Synology
Versions Affected: before 1.4.2-084

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerabilities can be exploited by placing a Trojan horse in the current working directory, leveraging files such as shfolder.dll, ntmarta.dll, secur32.dll, or dwmapi.dll.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-11159 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Photo Station Uploader to version 1.4.2-084 or later to mitigate the vulnerabilities.
Avoid running the application from directories that are accessible to untrusted users.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and applications to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement proper file system permissions to restrict unauthorized access to critical directories.

Patching and Updates

Synology has released version 1.4.2-084 to address the vulnerabilities. Ensure all systems running Photo Station Uploader are updated to this version or the latest available release.