CVE-2015-0999 in InduSoft Web Studio
Summary
by MITRE
Schneider Electric InduSoft Web Studio before 7.1.3.4 SP3 Patch 4 and InTouch Machine Edition 2014 before 7.1.3.4 SP3 Patch 4 store cleartext OPC User credentials in a configuration file, which allows local users to obtain sensitive information by reading this file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/28/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-0999 represents a critical security flaw in Schneider Electric's industrial automation software products, specifically affecting InduSoft Web Studio and InTouch Machine Edition versions prior to 7.1.3.4 SP3 Patch 4. This issue stems from the improper handling of sensitive authentication credentials within the software's configuration management processes, creating an exploitable condition that directly compromises the security posture of industrial control systems. The flaw manifests when the software stores OPC (OLE for Process Control) user credentials in plaintext format within configuration files, eliminating any form of encryption or obfuscation that would normally protect such sensitive information from unauthorized access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the software's configuration file storage mechanism, which fails to apply proper cryptographic protection to authentication credentials. This design flaw falls under the category of CWE-312, which specifically addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper data handling. When local users gain access to the system, they can simply read the configuration files containing these cleartext credentials, thereby obtaining complete authentication information that would normally require legitimate authorization to access. The vulnerability operates at the file system level, where configuration files containing user credentials are stored in accessible locations without proper access controls or encryption mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it fundamentally undermines the security model of industrial control systems that rely on proper authentication mechanisms to protect critical infrastructure operations. Local attackers who can access the system files can immediately obtain valid OPC user credentials, potentially enabling them to access industrial processes, modify operational parameters, or disrupt system functionality. This vulnerability creates a direct pathway for privilege escalation and unauthorized access to industrial control systems, which can have severe consequences in operational technology environments where system integrity and security are paramount. The impact is particularly concerning in environments where physical security controls may be insufficient or where insider threats exist.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-0999 require immediate implementation of software updates to the affected versions of Schneider Electric's products, specifically applying the 7.1.3.4 SP3 Patch 4 or later releases that address the cleartext credential storage issue. Organizations should also implement additional access controls, including proper file system permissions, restricted access to configuration directories, and regular security audits to detect unauthorized access attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following security best practices such as the principle of least privilege and proper credential management, which aligns with security frameworks like NIST SP 800-53 controls for access control and system configuration management. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring solutions to detect suspicious file access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for secure configuration management in industrial control systems and the importance of proper credential handling practices throughout the software development lifecycle.