CVE-2017-5566 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability related to code injection has been discovered in AVG Ultimate 17.1 (and earlier), AVG Internet Security 17.1 (and earlier), and AVG AntiVirus FREE 17.1 (and earlier), allowing a local attacker to bypass self-protection mechanisms and gain full control over AVG processes.

Understanding CVE-2017-5566

This CVE involves a code injection vulnerability in specific AVG products that can be exploited by attackers to inject unauthorized code and take control of the affected processes.

What is CVE-2017-5566?

The vulnerability in AVG products allows a local attacker to bypass self-protection mechanisms and inject unauthorized code, leading to complete control over AVG processes.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5566

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to gain full control over AVG processes.
The technique known as "DoubleAgent" is utilized to carry out the attack.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5566

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability enables a local attacker to inject arbitrary code and bypass self-protection mechanisms in AVG products.

Affected Systems and Versions

Products affected include AVG Ultimate 17.1, AVG Internet Security 17.1, and AVG AntiVirus FREE 17.1, along with earlier versions.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the absence of the Protected Processes feature in the affected products.
By manipulating the registry and placing an arbitrary Application Verifier Provider DLL under Image File Execution Options, attackers can override the self-protection mechanism.
The attacker can temporarily rename Image File Execution Options during the attack to evade the self-protection mechanism.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from this vulnerability requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update AVG products to the latest versions that address this vulnerability.
Implement security measures to prevent unauthorized code injection.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update antivirus software and security patches.
Monitor and restrict registry modifications to prevent unauthorized changes.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by AVG to fix the vulnerability and enhance system security.