Microsoft Office is prone to a flaw in the way it loads dynamic-link libraries (DLL). The program uses a fixed path to look for specific files or libraries. This path includes directories that may not be trusted or under user control. By placing a custom version of the file or library in the path, the program will load it before the legitimate version. This allows an attacker to inject custom code that will be run with the privilege of the program or user executing the program. This can be done by tricking a user into opening a .PPT file from the local file system or a USB drive in some cases. This attack can be leveraged remotely in some cases by placing the malicious file or library on a network share or extracted archive downloaded from a remote source.
Classification
Location:
Local / Remote,
Context Dependent
Attack Type:
Input Manipulation
Impact:
Loss of Integrity
Solution:
Patch / RCS
Exploit:
Exploit Private
Disclosure:
Vendor Verified,
Coordinated Disclosure
Solution
Currently, there are no known workarounds or upgrades to correct this issue. However, Microsoft has released a patch to address this vulnerability. Check the Microsoft Security Bulletin in the references section.
