CVE-2017-9958 in U.motion Builder
Summary
by MITRE
An improper access control vulnerability exists in Schneider Electric's U.motion Builder software versions 1.2.1 and prior in which an improper handling of the system configuration can allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code under the context of root.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/14/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9958 represents a critical access control flaw within Schneider Electric's U.motion Builder software, a configuration tool used for developing and managing industrial automation systems. This issue affects versions 1.2.1 and earlier, where the software fails to properly validate system configuration parameters during the execution process. The flaw stems from inadequate input sanitization and privilege management mechanisms that allow malicious actors to manipulate the software's operational environment. The vulnerability specifically targets the software's handling of system configuration data, creating a pathway for unauthorized code execution that operates with the highest possible privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability manifests through improper access control mechanisms that fail to validate the integrity and authenticity of system configuration parameters. When the U.motion Builder software processes configuration data, it does not adequately verify the source or content of these parameters, allowing an attacker to inject malicious inputs that bypass normal security checks. This weakness creates a privilege escalation vector where an attacker can manipulate the software's execution flow to run arbitrary code with root privileges, effectively compromising the entire system. The vulnerability operates at the system level rather than at the application level, making it particularly dangerous in industrial environments where system integrity is paramount. This type of flaw aligns with CWE-284, which describes improper access control vulnerabilities, and represents a direct violation of the principle of least privilege in system design.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-9958 extends far beyond traditional information technology environments, particularly affecting industrial control systems and operational technology infrastructure. In industrial settings, this vulnerability could enable attackers to gain complete control over automation processes, potentially leading to production disruptions, safety hazards, or even physical damage to equipment. The root-level execution capability means that an attacker could modify system files, install backdoors, or manipulate critical industrial processes without detection. The vulnerability's presence in U.motion Builder software specifically impacts the configuration and deployment of automation systems, creating potential cascading effects throughout industrial networks. Organizations relying on Schneider Electric's industrial automation solutions face significant risk exposure, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, energy, and utilities where system reliability and security are critical.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action including updating to patched versions of U.motion Builder software, implementing network segmentation to limit access to the affected systems, and conducting comprehensive security assessments of industrial control environments. Organizations should also implement privileged access management controls and monitor for suspicious system behavior that could indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification as a privilege escalation issue means that standard network security measures may be insufficient, requiring additional layers of protection such as application whitelisting and system integrity monitoring. Security teams should also consider implementing the principle of defense in depth, ensuring that multiple security controls are in place to protect against similar vulnerabilities in industrial automation environments. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure software development practices and proper access control implementation in industrial control systems, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers exploit for privilege escalation.