CVE-2013-2786 in MiCOM S1 Studio
Summary
by MITRE
Alstom Grid MiCOM S1 Agile before 1.0.3 and Alstom Grid MiCOM S1 Studio use weak permissions for the MiCOM S1 %PROGRAMFILES% directory, which allows local users to gain privileges via a Trojan horse executable file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/26/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-2786 affects Alstom Grid MiCOM S1 Agile software versions prior to 1.0.3 and the associated MiCOM S1 Studio application. This security flaw resides in the directory permission configuration within the program files directory structure, creating a significant privilege escalation vector for local attackers. The issue stems from insufficient access controls that fail to properly restrict write permissions for critical system directories, allowing malicious actors to place malicious executables in the designated program files location.
This vulnerability represents a classic privilege escalation flaw that aligns with CWE-276, which specifically addresses improper file permissions and inadequate access control mechanisms. The weak permissions configuration creates a dangerous environment where local users can manipulate system files through a Trojan horse attack vector. When an attacker successfully places a malicious executable in the %PROGRAMFILES% directory, the system may execute this file with elevated privileges, potentially leading to full system compromise. The attack requires local access to the system, making it a local privilege escalation vulnerability that can be exploited by users with basic account access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass potential system takeover and data compromise. Attackers who successfully exploit this weakness can execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, potentially gaining access to sensitive system resources, modifying critical application components, or establishing persistent backdoors. The MiCOM S1 Agile and Studio applications are commonly used in industrial control systems and grid management environments where system integrity and security are paramount. This vulnerability could potentially disrupt critical infrastructure operations and compromise the security of entire power grid management systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-2786 should focus on immediate permission hardening and system configuration updates. Organizations should immediately apply the vendor-supplied patch or upgrade to version 1.0.3 or later where this vulnerability has been addressed. System administrators must review and tighten directory permissions for the MiCOM S1 program files directory, ensuring that only authorized users and processes have write access. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by removing unnecessary write permissions from the %PROGRAMFILES% directory and implementing proper access control lists. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious file creation or modification activities in critical system directories. This vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper permission management in industrial control system applications, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers privilege escalation through local exploits.