CVE-2012-0226 in Wonderware Information Server
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in Invensys Wonderware Information Server 4.0 SP1 and 4.5 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0226 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within Invensys Wonderware Information Server versions 4.0 SP1 and 4.5. This vulnerability resides in the information server component that serves as a central hub for industrial automation and process control data management. The affected system operates within critical infrastructure environments where data integrity and system security are paramount. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied data before incorporating it into SQL query constructs. Attackers can exploit this weakness through unspecified vectors that likely involve web-based interfaces or API endpoints that process user input directly without proper sanitization measures. The flaw permits remote attackers to inject malicious SQL commands that can be executed within the context of the database server, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-89 which categorizes SQL injection as a fundamental weakness in software design where untrusted data is embedded into SQL queries without proper escaping or parameterization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits malicious input through application interfaces that communicate with the underlying database. The information server's failure to implement proper parameterized queries or input sanitization allows the injected SQL commands to be interpreted and executed by the database engine. This can result in complete database compromise including privilege escalation, data exfiltration, and potential system lateral movement within the industrial control environment. The remote nature of the attack vector eliminates the need for physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous in industrial settings where network segmentation may be insufficient. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data theft as it can enable attackers to manipulate industrial processes, potentially causing operational disruptions or safety hazards in critical infrastructure environments. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain access to sensitive operational data, modify process parameters, or even execute arbitrary code on the database server itself.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-0226 within industrial control systems is severe and multifaceted. Organizations using Wonderware Information Server in manufacturing, process control, or energy sectors face significant risks including potential production disruptions, data integrity compromises, and unauthorized access to critical operational parameters. The vulnerability's presence in both SP1 and 4.5 versions indicates a persistent flaw that affects multiple iterations of the software, suggesting that organizations may have been exposed for extended periods without proper remediation. Industrial environments often lack the sophisticated monitoring and response capabilities found in traditional IT environments, making such vulnerabilities particularly dangerous. The attack surface is expanded when considering that these systems often interface with other industrial protocols and networks, potentially allowing attackers to pivot through connected systems once initial access is achieved. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to cascading failures in industrial operations where data manipulation directly impacts process control systems, potentially causing equipment damage or safety incidents.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying vendor-provided patches and updates to address the SQL injection vulnerability in Wonderware Information Server. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the information server from untrusted networks, limiting potential attack vectors. Input validation mechanisms should be strengthened to ensure all user-supplied data is properly sanitized before database processing occurs. Database access controls should be reviewed and implemented with the principle of least privilege to minimize the impact of potential exploitation. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual database access patterns or query execution that could indicate exploitation attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the T1190 technique for exploitation of remote services, with potential lateral movement opportunities through T1071 for application layer protocols. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in industrial control system components, as this vulnerability demonstrates the critical need for robust input validation and secure coding practices in industrial software environments.