CVE-2017-5235 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2017-5235 affecting Rapid7 Metasploit Pro installers. Find out how a DLL preloading vulnerability could allow malicious DLL loading and how to mitigate the risk.
Rapid7 Metasploit Pro installers prior to version 4.13.0-2017022101 are vulnerable to a DLL preloading issue that could allow the loading of a malicious DLL file.
Understanding CVE-2017-5235
This CVE involves a vulnerability in older versions of Rapid7 Metasploit Pro installers that could lead to the loading of a malicious DLL file.
What is CVE-2017-5235?
The vulnerability in Rapid7 Metasploit Pro installers allows the loading of a DLL file from the current working directory, potentially a malicious one.
The Impact of CVE-2017-5235
This vulnerability could be exploited by an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the system, leading to potential compromise of the affected system.
Technical Details of CVE-2017-5235
Rapid7 Metasploit Pro installers prior to version 4.13.0-2017022101 are susceptible to a DLL preloading vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows the installer to load a DLL file from the current working directory, which could be a malicious DLL file.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Metasploit Pro
- Vendor: Rapid7
- Versions Affected: All versions prior to 4.13.0-2017022101
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability could be exploited by placing a malicious DLL file in the same directory as the installer, tricking it into loading the malicious code.
Mitigation and Prevention
It is crucial to take immediate steps to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2017-5235.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Rapid7 Metasploit Pro to version 4.13.0-2017022101 or later to eliminate the vulnerability.
- Avoid running installers from untrusted sources.
- Monitor for any suspicious DLL loading activities.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update software and apply security patches promptly.
- Implement robust security measures to prevent unauthorized access to systems.
- Conduct regular security assessments and audits to identify and address vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all software, including Rapid7 Metasploit Pro, is kept up to date with the latest security patches and updates to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.