CVE-2012-4693 in ProcessSuite
Summary
by MITRE
Invensys Wonderware InTouch 2012 R2 and earlier and Siemens ProcessSuite use a weak encryption algorithm for data in Ps_security.ini, which makes it easier for local users to discover passwords by reading this file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/21/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-4693 affects Invensys Wonderware InTouch 2012 R2 and earlier versions as well as Siemens ProcessSuite applications that utilize the Ps_security.ini configuration file for storing sensitive authentication data. This weakness represents a critical security flaw in industrial control system software where authentication credentials are stored using insufficient cryptographic protection mechanisms. The vulnerability resides in the manner these industrial automation platforms handle password encryption within their configuration files, creating an exploitable condition that compromises the security posture of operational technology environments.
The technical flaw stems from the implementation of a weak encryption algorithm within the Ps_security.ini file processing mechanism of these industrial software solutions. When users configure authentication parameters within these platforms, the system stores the corresponding passwords using a cryptographic method that lacks sufficient complexity and security strength. This weak encryption approach typically employs outdated or easily reversible cryptographic functions that can be readily broken through standard reverse engineering techniques. The vulnerability specifically impacts the storage and protection of authentication credentials, making it possible for unauthorized local users to extract and decode stored passwords simply by reading the configuration file directly from the system. This weakness directly maps to CWE-327, which addresses the use of weak cryptographic algorithms, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1552.001 for credentials from password files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends significantly within industrial environments where these applications are deployed, as local users with access to the system can trivially obtain authentication credentials that would normally remain protected. This creates a substantial risk for industrial control systems where unauthorized access to authentication data could lead to system compromise, operational disruption, or even physical safety hazards. The vulnerability particularly affects environments where multiple users have local system access, as any individual with basic file reading privileges could potentially extract sensitive information. The exposure of stored passwords undermines the fundamental security model of these industrial applications, allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to systems that should remain protected. Organizations utilizing these platforms face increased risk of insider threats, compromised operational technology environments, and potential escalation of attacks through credential reuse across networked systems. The vulnerability demonstrates poor security practices in industrial software development and highlights the critical need for proper cryptographic implementation in operational technology environments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of both administrative and technical controls to protect the affected systems. Organizations should immediately update their installations to versions that address this cryptographic weakness, as vendors typically provide patches that strengthen the encryption algorithms used for storing authentication data. System administrators should implement strict file access controls and permissions on the Ps_security.ini files to limit local user access and prevent unauthorized reading of sensitive configuration data. Additional protective measures include implementing monitoring for unauthorized file access attempts and establishing regular security audits of authentication data storage mechanisms. The remediation process should also include reviewing and updating cryptographic standards used in industrial automation platforms to ensure compliance with current security requirements. Organizations should consider implementing additional authentication layers and access controls beyond the basic credential storage mechanisms to reduce the impact of such vulnerabilities. This vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining current security practices in industrial environments and the necessity of proper cryptographic implementation in critical infrastructure applications.