CVE-2017-6020 in LTDA ME LAquis SCADA
Summary
by MITRE
Leao Consultoria e Desenvolvimento de Sistemas (LCDS) LTDA ME LAquis SCADA software versions prior to version 4.1.0.3237 do not neutralize external input to ensure that users are not calling for absolute path sequences outside of their privilege level.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/25/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-6020 affects LAquis SCADA software produced by Leao Consultoria e Desenvolvimento de Sistemas LTDA ME, specifically versions prior to 4.1.0.3237. This represents a critical security flaw that exposes the system to path traversal attacks, allowing unauthorized users to access files and directories outside their intended privilege boundaries. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the software's handling of external user inputs, particularly those related to file path specifications.
This security weakness constitutes a classic path traversal vulnerability that falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. The flaw enables attackers to manipulate input parameters to navigate through the file system hierarchy beyond the intended access levels, potentially gaining access to sensitive system files, configuration data, or other restricted resources that should remain protected from unauthorized access. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in industrial control systems where SCADA software serves as the primary interface for monitoring and controlling critical infrastructure components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it can enable attackers to escalate privileges and potentially compromise the entire SCADA infrastructure. In industrial environments, this weakness could allow adversaries to extract configuration files containing sensitive operational data, access system logs that reveal network topology information, or even modify critical system files that could disrupt operations or enable further attacks. The vulnerability directly impacts the principle of least privilege, which is fundamental to secure system design and is often referenced in security frameworks such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate deployment of the vendor-provided patch or upgrade to version 4.1.0.3237 and subsequent releases that address the path traversal issue. Organizations should also implement input validation controls that sanitize all external inputs, particularly those related to file path specifications, and establish proper access controls that limit user privileges to only the necessary system resources. Network segmentation and monitoring solutions should be deployed to detect anomalous file access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, security awareness training for system administrators and operational technology personnel is crucial to prevent social engineering attacks that might leverage this vulnerability. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the 'Path Traversal' tactic, making it a significant concern for organizations implementing cybersecurity defense-in-depth strategies.