CVE-2008-0175 in Proficy Real-Time Information Portal
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in GE Fanuc Proficy Real-Time Information Portal 2.6 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an executable extension to the main virtual directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/24/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-0175 represents a critical security flaw in GE Fanuc Proficy Real-Time Information Portal version 2.6 and earlier systems. This unrestricted file upload vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and access control mechanisms within the web application's file handling functionality. The flaw exists in the main virtual directory of the portal, which serves as the primary entry point for file operations and user interactions. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by uploading malicious files with executable extensions directly to this critical directory, bypassing normal security restrictions that should prevent such operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which specifically addresses the improper restriction of uploads of executable files. The flaw occurs due to insufficient validation of file types and extensions during the upload process, allowing attackers to bypass security checks that should prevent execution of potentially harmful code. The affected system fails to properly sanitize file names and extensions, enabling attackers to upload files with extensions such as .asp, .aspx, .php, or .jsp that can be executed within the web server environment. This represents a classic case of insecure file upload handling where the application trusts user-supplied input without proper validation or sanitization.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to industrial control systems and real-time information portals that rely on GE Fanuc products for operational monitoring and data management. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to the system, potentially leading to complete system compromise and unauthorized modification of critical operational data. The impact extends beyond simple code execution, as attackers can deploy backdoors, modify operational parameters, or disrupt critical processes that depend on the real-time information portal for monitoring and control functions. This vulnerability particularly threatens environments where the portal serves as a central hub for industrial automation and process control, where unauthorized access could result in significant operational disruptions or safety hazards.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-0175 should focus on implementing comprehensive file upload restrictions and access controls. Organizations should immediately apply the vendor-provided patches or upgrade to versions of the Proficy Real-Time Information Portal that address this vulnerability. The recommended approach includes implementing strict file type validation, rejecting uploads of executable extensions, and configuring the web server to prevent execution of uploaded files in the virtual directory. Additionally, organizations should implement proper access controls and authentication mechanisms to limit upload capabilities to authorized users only. The mitigation approach should also include network segmentation to isolate critical systems and implement monitoring solutions that can detect unauthorized file upload attempts. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application and T1059 - Command and Scripting Interpreter, highlighting the multi-stage attack pattern that leverages both application exploitation and execution capabilities. The vulnerability also aligns with NIST SP 800-53 requirements for secure coding practices and input validation controls that should prevent such unrestricted file upload scenarios from occurring in production environments.