CVE-2011-3495 in ScadaPro
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple directory traversal vulnerabilities in service.exe in Measuresoft ScadaPro 4.0.0 and earlier allow remote attackers to read, modify, or delete arbitrary files via the (1) RF, (2) wF, (3) UF, or (4) NF command.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/08/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-3495 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within Measuresoft ScadaPro 4.0.0 and earlier versions, specifically affecting the service.exe component. This directory traversal vulnerability enables remote attackers to manipulate file system operations through four distinct command parameters: RF, wF, UF, and NF. The flaw resides in how the application processes user-supplied input without proper validation or sanitization, allowing malicious actors to craft requests that traverse directory structures beyond intended boundaries. Such vulnerabilities fall under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The attack vector leverages the application's failure to properly validate input parameters, creating opportunities for unauthorized access to sensitive system resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the service.exe application. When remote attackers submit specially crafted requests containing the RF, wF, UF, or NF commands, the system fails to properly sanitize the input before processing file operations. This allows attackers to inject malicious path sequences such as ../ or ..\ that can navigate to arbitrary directories on the affected system. The vulnerability affects the core file handling functionality of ScadaPro, enabling attackers to read, modify, or delete arbitrary files on the target system. This represents a fundamental failure in input validation and access control implementation, where the application does not properly enforce file system boundaries. The impact extends beyond simple file access, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise through unauthorized modifications to critical system files, configuration data, or operational parameters.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-3495 is severe for industrial control systems and SCADA environments that rely on Measuresoft ScadaPro. Organizations using affected versions face significant risks including unauthorized access to sensitive operational data, potential disruption of critical infrastructure operations, and possible compromise of industrial control systems. The vulnerability's remote nature means attackers can exploit it from external networks without requiring physical access or prior authentication, making it particularly dangerous in industrial environments where security boundaries may be less strictly enforced. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain persistent access to system resources, potentially leading to data exfiltration, system modification, or operational disruption. The implications are particularly concerning for critical infrastructure sectors such as power generation, water treatment, and manufacturing, where SCADA systems control essential operational processes and where unauthorized access could result in significant safety, environmental, or economic consequences.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-3495 should prioritize immediate remediation through official vendor patches or updates to ScadaPro versions that address the directory traversal vulnerability. Organizations must implement comprehensive input validation mechanisms that sanitize all user-supplied parameters before processing, specifically targeting the RF, wF, UF, and NF command parameters. Network segmentation and access control measures should be strengthened to limit exposure of vulnerable systems to untrusted networks, while implementing proper authentication and authorization controls. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1078 for Valid Accounts and T1566 for Phishing, as attackers may exploit this vulnerability to establish persistence or gain initial access. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues in industrial control system environments. Additionally, implementing network monitoring and intrusion detection systems can help identify suspicious file access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, while maintaining proper audit logging for forensic analysis and compliance requirements.