CVE-2012-1824 in ScadaPro Server
Summary
by MITRE
Untrusted search path vulnerability in Measuresoft ScadaPro Client before 4.0.0 and ScadaPro Server before 4.0.0 allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse DLL in the current working directory.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/13/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-1824 represents a critical untrusted search path issue affecting Measuresoft ScadaPro Client and Server software versions prior to 4.0.0. This weakness resides in the software's dynamic library loading mechanism where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the search path used to locate required DLL files. The vulnerability manifests when the application attempts to load a dynamic link library and inadvertently loads a maliciously crafted DLL file from the current working directory instead of the intended legitimate location. This behavior directly aligns with CWE-427, which describes uncontrolled search path dependencies, and CWE-428, addressing untrusted search path vulnerabilities. The issue creates a privilege escalation vector that can be exploited by local attackers who place a malicious DLL file in the same directory as the vulnerable application.
The technical flaw exploited in this vulnerability stems from the application's insecure default behavior of searching for DLL files in the current working directory before examining system directories. When ScadaPro applications execute, they follow a predictable search order that includes the current working directory, which is often the same location where users or attackers can place files. This insecure search order allows an attacker to place a malicious DLL file with the same name as a legitimate system DLL that the application expects to load. The operating system then loads the attacker-controlled DLL instead of the legitimate one, enabling code execution with the privileges of the running process. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in industrial control systems environments where ScadaPro applications typically run with elevated privileges and may have access to critical infrastructure components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to potentially compromise entire industrial control systems. Local attackers who gain access to the system can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code within the context of the ScadaPro application, which may have access to sensitive operational data, control system interfaces, or network communication protocols. The implications are significant in environments where these systems control critical infrastructure such as power grids, water treatment facilities, or manufacturing processes. Attackers could potentially manipulate control signals, corrupt operational data, or establish persistent access points within the industrial network. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1548.002 for abuse of elevation control mechanisms, as the attacker gains elevated privileges through the insecure DLL loading mechanism.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-1824 require immediate software updates to versions 4.0.0 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should implement strict access controls and file system permissions to prevent unauthorized users from placing files in directories where ScadaPro applications execute. Network segmentation and privilege separation can limit the potential impact if an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability. System administrators should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of affected software and ensure proper patch management procedures are in place. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting solutions and monitoring for suspicious DLL loading activities can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices and proper DLL loading mechanisms that prioritize system directories over user-controllable locations, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Secure Coding Guidelines and NIST Special Publication 800-125.