CVE-2017-9957 in U.motion Builder
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability exists in Schneider Electric's U.motion Builder software versions 1.2.1 and prior in which the web service contains a hidden system account with a hardcoded password. An attacker can use this information to log into the system with high-privilege credentials.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/14/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9957 represents a critical security flaw in Schneider Electric's U.motion Builder software suite, specifically affecting versions 1.2.1 and earlier releases. This issue stems from the improper implementation of authentication mechanisms within the web service component of the software, creating a backdoor access vector that significantly compromises the security posture of industrial control systems. The flaw manifests as a hidden system account that is permanently embedded within the application code, bypassing normal authentication procedures and providing unauthorized access to privileged system functions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a hardcoded credential mechanism that violates fundamental security principles outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST guidelines for secure software development. The presence of a hardcoded password within the web service constitutes a severe design flaw that directly maps to CWE-798, which specifically addresses the use of hardcoded credentials in software applications. This hardcoded account operates independently of standard user management systems and remains active regardless of password changes or account modifications, creating a persistent security risk that persists across software updates and system reboots.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables attackers to gain high-privilege access to industrial control systems that could result in significant operational disruptions and safety hazards. The ability to log into the system with elevated credentials allows unauthorized individuals to modify system configurations, access sensitive operational data, and potentially manipulate industrial processes. This poses particular risk in industrial environments where control systems manage critical infrastructure, manufacturing processes, or safety-critical operations. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers legitimate credentials and the use of valid accounts for unauthorized access, making it particularly dangerous in environments where system integrity and operational continuity are paramount.
The mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-9957 require immediate action from affected organizations to address the hardcoded credential issue. The most effective remediation involves upgrading to Schneider Electric's patched versions of U.motion Builder software, which eliminate the hardcoded account and implement proper authentication mechanisms. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify any other instances of hardcoded credentials within their industrial control systems and establish robust credential management policies. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of these systems to unauthorized networks, while regular security audits should verify that no other hidden accounts or backdoors exist within critical industrial software platforms. The vulnerability serves as a stark reminder of the importance of secure coding practices and the need for regular security assessments in industrial environments where software security directly impacts operational safety and system reliability.