CVE-2017-7884 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Adam Kropelin adk0212 APC UPS Daemon 3.14.14 allows a local authenticated user to execute unauthorized code with elevated privileges by replacing the service executable with a malicious file.

Understanding CVE-2017-7884

This CVE involves a vulnerability in the APC UPS Daemon that enables a non-administrative local user to run unauthorized code with elevated privileges.

What is CVE-2017-7884?

The default installation of Adam Kropelin adk0212 APC UPS Daemon 3.14.14 has a security flaw that permits a local authenticated user without administrative rights to execute unauthorized code with elevated privileges. This unauthorized code execution is achieved by substituting the legitimate service executable with a malicious file, allowing it to run with SYSTEM privileges during system startup.

The Impact of CVE-2017-7884

The vulnerability arises due to incorrect permissions set for the apcupsd.exe service executable, enabling an attacker to escalate privileges and potentially compromise the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-7884

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Adam Kropelin adk0212 APC UPS Daemon 3.14.14 allows a local authenticated user to replace the service executable with a malicious file, leading to unauthorized code execution with elevated privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Adam Kropelin adk0212 APC UPS Daemon 3.14.14
Vendor: N/A
Version: N/A

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by replacing the legitimate apcupsd.exe service executable with a malicious file, leveraging the incorrect permissions set for the executable.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-7884 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Monitor system startup processes for any unauthorized changes to executables.
Restrict access to critical system files to authorized personnel only.
Implement least privilege principles to limit user capabilities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software to address known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security training for users to raise awareness of potential threats.
Employ endpoint protection solutions to detect and prevent unauthorized code execution.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that the APC UPS Daemon software is updated to a secure version that addresses the vulnerability.