CVE-2017-17069 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A security vulnerability in the ActiveSetupN.exe file used by Amazon Audible for Windows allowed attackers to execute unauthorized DLL code.

Understanding CVE-2017-17069

Prior to November 2017, a security vulnerability was identified in the ActiveSetupN.exe file used by Amazon Audible for Windows. This vulnerability could be exploited by attackers to execute unauthorized DLL code.

What is CVE-2017-17069?

ActiveSetupN.exe in Amazon Audible for Windows before November 2017 allows attackers to execute arbitrary DLL code if ActiveSetupN.exe is launched from a directory where an attacker has already created a Trojan horse dwmapi.dll file.

The Impact of CVE-2017-17069

Attackers could execute unauthorized DLL code on systems running Amazon Audible for Windows.
The vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access and potential system compromise.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-17069

The following technical details provide insight into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in ActiveSetupN.exe allowed for the execution of unauthorized DLL code.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Amazon Audible for Windows
Versions: Before November 2017

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers needed to launch the ActiveSetupN.exe file from a specific directory containing a malicious dwmapi.dll file.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-17069 requires immediate action and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Amazon Audible for Windows to the latest version.
Avoid launching executables from untrusted directories.
Implement file integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized changes.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and apply security patches.
Conduct security awareness training to educate users on safe computing practices.

Patching and Updates

Amazon Audible users should ensure they have the latest version installed to mitigate the vulnerability.