CVE-2017-9961 in Pro-Face GP Pro EX
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability exists in Schneider Electric's Pro-Face GP Pro EX version 4.07.000 that allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code. Malicious code installation requires an access to the computer. By placing a specific DLL/OCX file, an attacker is able to force the process to load arbitrary DLL and execute arbitrary code in the context of the process.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/19/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-9961 represents a critical code execution flaw within Schneider Electric's Pro-Face GP Pro EX software version 4.07.000. This issue stems from improper handling of dynamic link library loading mechanisms within the application's runtime environment. The vulnerability operates under the Common Weakness Enumeration framework as CWE-427, specifically addressing Uncontrolled Search Path Element, where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the paths from which it loads dynamic libraries. The flaw manifests when the software encounters a maliciously crafted DLL or OCX file that it attempts to load during normal operation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to gain physical or network access to a target system running the vulnerable software version. Once access is obtained, the malicious actor can place a specifically crafted DLL or OCX file in a location that the vulnerable application will automatically attempt to load. This occurs due to the software's insecure library loading practices, where it does not properly validate the source or integrity of dynamically loaded components. The vulnerability operates at the operating system level through Windows dynamic link library loading mechanisms, allowing the attacker to execute arbitrary code within the security context of the running application process. This type of attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can potentially enable full system compromise when the vulnerable application runs with elevated privileges. The affected software environment typically operates in industrial control systems or human machine interface applications where privilege escalation could lead to significant operational disruptions. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to install persistent backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive operational data, or manipulate industrial processes. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical sophistication, making it particularly dangerous in environments where physical security measures may be inadequate. The attack vector primarily involves social engineering or physical access to the target system, but once executed, could allow attackers to maintain long-term access to critical infrastructure components.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-9961 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The most effective immediate solution involves applying the vendor-supplied security patches or upgrading to a non-vulnerable version of Pro-Face GP Pro EX software. Organizations should implement strict library loading policies that prevent applications from loading DLLs from untrusted locations, utilizing Windows Defender Application Control or similar technologies to enforce code integrity policies. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit physical and network access to systems running vulnerable software. The implementation of privilege separation and least-privilege principles can significantly reduce the impact of successful exploitation attempts. Additionally, security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous library loading patterns, and regular security assessments should be conducted to identify other potential insecure library loading practices within the industrial control system environment.