CVE-2017-14025 in Fox515T
Summary
by MITRE
An Improper Input Validation issue was discovered in ABB FOX515T release 1.0. An improper input validation vulnerability has been identified, allowing a local attacker to provide a malicious parameter to the script that is not validated by the application, This could enable the attacker to retrieve any file on the server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/23/2021
The CVE-2017-14025 vulnerability represents a critical improper input validation flaw in ABB FOX515T release 1.0 that fundamentally compromises the security posture of industrial control systems. This vulnerability resides within the application's script processing mechanism where insufficient parameter validation allows malicious inputs to bypass security controls and execute unauthorized file access operations. The flaw specifically affects the way the system handles user-supplied parameters, creating a pathway for local attackers to manipulate the application's behavior through crafted inputs that are not properly sanitized or validated.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which categorizes improper input validation as a fundamental weakness in software design that enables various attack vectors including command injection, path traversal, and arbitrary file access. The security implications extend beyond simple data exposure as the vulnerability enables a local attacker to retrieve any file on the server, potentially accessing sensitive configuration data, system binaries, or confidential operational information. The attack surface is particularly concerning in industrial environments where ABB FOX515T systems are deployed for critical infrastructure monitoring and control, as this vulnerability could provide attackers with insights into system architecture and operational parameters that could be leveraged for further exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe for organizations utilizing ABB FOX515T systems, as it creates an attack vector that could lead to complete system compromise. Local attackers who gain access to the system can exploit this weakness to extract sensitive files that may contain system credentials, configuration parameters, or proprietary operational data. The vulnerability's persistence in the system's scripting functionality means that any application components relying on user input processing could be affected, potentially leading to cascading security issues. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in industrial control environments where system integrity and operational continuity are paramount, as unauthorized file access could disrupt operations or provide attackers with information needed for more sophisticated attacks.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including input validation enforcement, access controls, and system hardening measures to address this vulnerability. The recommended approach involves implementing strict parameter validation mechanisms that sanitize all user inputs before processing, employing principle of least privilege access controls, and conducting regular security assessments of industrial control systems. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring solutions to detect potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices in industrial control systems and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, as attackers could leverage this vulnerability to execute unauthorized commands through manipulated script parameters. The incident underscores the necessity for robust security testing and validation of industrial control system components, particularly those handling user inputs in critical infrastructure environments.