CVE-2012-6068 in CODESYS Runtime System
Summary
by MITRE
The Runtime Toolkit in CODESYS Runtime System 2.3.x and 2.4.x does not require authentication, which allows remote attackers to (1) execute commands via the command-line interface in the TCP listener service or (2) transfer files via requests to the TCP listener service.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-6068 resides within the Runtime Toolkit component of CODESYS Runtime System versions 2.3.x and 2.4.x, representing a critical security flaw that fundamentally undermines the system's access control mechanisms. This issue manifests as a complete absence of authentication requirements within the Runtime Toolkit, creating an exploitable pathway that enables unauthorized remote actors to gain elevated privileges and execute malicious operations within the system environment. The vulnerability specifically impacts the TCP listener service that handles command-line interface operations and file transfer requests, making it a significant concern for industrial control systems and embedded environments where CODESYS Runtime is deployed.
The technical implementation of this flaw stems from the Runtime Toolkit's design failure to enforce any form of authentication checks before processing incoming requests through the TCP listener service. This authentication bypass allows remote attackers to directly interact with the system's command-line interface without proper authorization, enabling them to execute arbitrary commands on the target system. Additionally, the vulnerability permits unauthorized file transfer operations through the same TCP listener service, potentially allowing attackers to upload malicious payloads or download sensitive system information. The lack of authentication mechanisms creates a persistent security weakness that can be exploited from any network location without requiring prior access credentials or privileged positions within the system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected system's command execution capabilities and file handling functions. Remote attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform system reconnaissance, deploy malware, modify critical system files, or establish persistent backdoors within the target environment. The implications are particularly severe for industrial control systems where CODESYS Runtime is commonly deployed, as these environments often manage critical infrastructure operations and may lack robust network segmentation or monitoring capabilities. Attackers could potentially disrupt operations, compromise system integrity, or gain access to sensitive industrial processes that depend on these runtime environments.
Organizations affected by CVE-2012-6068 should prioritize immediate remediation efforts by upgrading to CODESYS Runtime System versions that address this authentication bypass vulnerability. The mitigation strategy should include implementing network segmentation to isolate affected systems, deploying firewalls to restrict access to the TCP listener service ports, and establishing monitoring controls to detect suspicious command execution or file transfer activities. Security teams should also consider implementing additional access controls through network-level authentication mechanisms and regularly auditing system configurations to ensure that no unauthorized access points remain available. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues, and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege as outlined in various cybersecurity frameworks and standards including those referenced in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the execution and persistence tactics.