CVE-2017-17429 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

K7 Antivirus Premium prior to version 15.1.0.53 is vulnerable to a lack of adequate authentication, allowing a local user to access a raw hard disk.

Understanding CVE-2017-17429

This CVE describes a security vulnerability in K7 Antivirus Premium that could be exploited by a local user to gain unauthorized access to a raw hard disk.

What is CVE-2017-17429?

The version of K7 Antivirus Premium before 15.1.0.53 lacks proper authentication for user input to the K7Sentry device, enabling a local user with low integrity process to access a raw hard disk by sending a specific IOCTL command.

The Impact of CVE-2017-17429

This vulnerability poses a significant risk as it allows unauthorized access to sensitive data stored on the hard disk, potentially leading to data theft or manipulation.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-17429

K7 Antivirus Premium version 15.1.0.53 and below are affected by this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from insufficient authentication of user input to the K7Sentry device, enabling a local user with low integrity process to access a raw hard disk through a specific IOCTL command.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: K7 Antivirus Premium
Versions affected: < 15.1.0.53

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker needs local access to the system with a process of LOW integrity to exploit this vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2017-17429.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update K7 Antivirus Premium to version 15.1.0.53 or later to patch the vulnerability.
Restrict physical access to systems to prevent unauthorized users from exploiting the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update antivirus software and security patches to protect against known vulnerabilities.
Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user access and minimize the impact of potential security breaches.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of software updates and security patches provided by K7 Computing to address security vulnerabilities.