CVE-2014-0755 in Rslogix 5000 Design And Configuration Software
Summary
by MITRE
Rockwell Automation RSLogix 5000 7 through 20.01, and 21.0, does not properly implement password protection for .ACD files (aka project files), which allows local users to obtain sensitive information or modify data via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/19/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0755 affects Rockwell Automation RSLogix 5000 software versions 7 through 20.01 and 21.0, representing a critical weakness in the industrial control systems domain. This issue specifically targets the protection mechanisms implemented for .ACD files, which serve as project files containing sensitive operational data and configuration parameters essential for industrial automation processes. The flaw lies in the inadequate implementation of password protection mechanisms that should safeguard these critical project files from unauthorized access or modification.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient cryptographic controls and access validation mechanisms within the software's file handling processes. When .ACD files are created or opened, the system fails to properly enforce authentication requirements that would normally prevent unauthorized users from accessing or altering the contained project information. This weakness creates an attack surface where local users can exploit unspecified vectors to either extract sensitive operational data or manipulate the project configurations without proper authorization. The vulnerability essentially undermines the integrity and confidentiality of industrial automation project files, potentially exposing proprietary process information, control logic, and system configurations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure, as it represents a significant risk to industrial control system security and operational continuity. Local attackers with access to the system can potentially modify control logic or extract sensitive information that could compromise the entire automation process. This threat is particularly concerning in industrial environments where operational technology (OT) systems require robust security measures to prevent unauthorized modifications that could lead to production disruptions, safety hazards, or security breaches. The vulnerability directly impacts the principle of least privilege and can enable attackers to escalate their access within the industrial control environment, potentially leading to more severe consequences within the broader OT infrastructure.
From a cybersecurity framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-522, which addresses insufficiently protected credentials, and represents a failure in access control implementation within industrial control systems. The issue also relates to ATT&CK technique T1566, which covers credential harvesting through various means, and T1070, covering indicator removal on systems. Organizations utilizing Rockwell Automation RSLogix 5000 software should implement immediate mitigations including ensuring proper access controls, conducting regular security assessments of industrial control systems, and implementing network segmentation to limit local access privileges. The remediation approach should focus on updating to patched versions of the software, implementing robust file access controls, and establishing proper security monitoring for unauthorized file access attempts. Additionally, organizations should consider conducting vulnerability assessments specifically targeting industrial control system environments to identify similar weaknesses in their operational technology infrastructure and ensure compliance with industrial cybersecurity standards such as NIST SP 800-80 and IEC 62443.