CVE-2018-10600 in AcSELerator Architect
Summary
by MITRE
SEL AcSELerator Architect version 2.2.24.0 and prior allows unsanitized input to be passed to the XML parser, which may allow disclosure and retrieval of arbitrary data, arbitrary code execution (in certain situations on specific platforms), and denial of service attacks.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/09/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-10600 affects SEL AcSELerator Architect version 2.2.24.0 and earlier installations, representing a critical security flaw in the software's handling of XML input data. This issue stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the application's XML parser implementation, creating multiple attack vectors that can be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability falls under the category of insecure data handling and improper input validation, which are fundamental security weaknesses that can lead to severe consequences across different operational domains.
The technical flaw manifests when the application processes XML input without proper sanitization, allowing attackers to craft malicious XML payloads that can be interpreted by the XML parser. This unsanitized input processing creates opportunities for several attack scenarios including arbitrary data disclosure, where attackers can extract sensitive information from the system's memory or storage. The vulnerability's potential for arbitrary code execution becomes particularly concerning when considering that certain platform configurations and execution environments may allow successful exploitation of this weakness. The XML parser's lack of proper input validation creates a pathway for attackers to inject malicious code that can be executed within the application's context, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure, as it can enable attackers to perform denial of service attacks that can disrupt critical infrastructure operations. Organizations relying on SEL AcSELerator Architect for power system protection and control may face significant operational risks, including potential service interruptions that could affect electrical grid stability and reliability. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by its potential for code execution, which can allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to system resources, escalate privileges, and maintain persistent access to affected systems. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in industrial control environments where system availability and integrity are paramount for operational safety.
Security practitioners should consider this vulnerability in the context of CWE-20, which addresses improper input validation, and align it with ATT&CK techniques such as T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1105 for remote file execution. Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of affected systems to the latest version of SEL AcSELerator Architect that addresses this vulnerability. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to affected systems and deploy input validation controls to prevent malicious XML payloads from reaching the application parser. Additional defensive measures include monitoring for suspicious XML processing activities, implementing application whitelisting policies, and conducting regular security assessments to identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input sanitization and the critical need for secure coding practices in industrial control systems where security failures can have far-reaching consequences for public safety and infrastructure reliability.