CVE-2017-14017 in Movicon
Summary
by MITRE
An Uncontrolled Search Path Element issue was discovered in Progea Movicon Version 11.5.1181 and prior. An uncontrolled search path element vulnerability has been identified, which may allow a remote attacker without privileges to execute arbitrary code in the form of a malicious DLL file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/27/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14017 represents a critical uncontrolled search path element flaw in Progea Movicon version 11.5.1181 and earlier versions. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-427 category, which specifically addresses uncontrolled search paths that can lead to privilege escalation and arbitrary code execution. The issue stems from how the application handles dynamic link library loading processes, creating an environment where malicious actors can manipulate the system's library resolution mechanism. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it enables remote code execution without requiring any authentication or elevated privileges, making it highly attractive to attackers targeting industrial control systems and supervisory control and data acquisition environments where Progea Movicon is commonly deployed.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when the application attempts to load a dynamic link library file, but the search path is not properly validated or constrained. Attackers can place a malicious DLL file in a location that will be searched before the legitimate library files, causing the application to execute the attacker-controlled code instead of the intended functionality. This behavior aligns with the ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. The flaw essentially allows for a form of DLL hijacking where the application's library loading mechanism is manipulated to load unauthorized code. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in industrial environments because it can be exploited remotely, potentially allowing attackers to compromise critical infrastructure control systems and disrupt operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise within industrial environments where Progea Movicon is deployed. The affected systems include manufacturing execution systems, process control systems, and other industrial automation platforms that rely on this software for operation. Organizations using these systems face potential risks including data manipulation, unauthorized access to operational controls, and disruption of critical processes. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including network-based delivery of malicious files, social engineering techniques, or by compromising systems that have legitimate access to the target environment. The remote execution capability means that attackers can potentially exploit this vulnerability from outside the organization's network, making it particularly dangerous for industrial control systems that may not be properly segmented from corporate networks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-14017 should focus on both immediate patching and operational security measures. Organizations must upgrade to Progea Movicon version 11.5.1182 or later, which contains the necessary fixes to address the uncontrolled search path element issue. Additionally, system administrators should implement proper library loading controls, including validating the integrity of all dynamic link libraries before execution and implementing strict access controls for system directories. Network segmentation and monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual library loading patterns or attempts to place malicious files in system directories. The implementation of application whitelisting policies can prevent unauthorized DLL files from executing, while regular security audits should verify that the search paths are properly configured and that no insecure library loading mechanisms remain in operation. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify potential DLL hijacking attempts and establish incident response procedures specifically tailored to address industrial control system compromises.