CVE-2018-14795 in DeltaV
Summary
by MITRE
DeltaV Versions 11.3.1, 12.3.1, 13.3.0, 13.3.1, and R5 is vulnerable due to improper path validation which may allow an attacker to replace executable files.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/17/2020
DeltaV systems version 11.3.1, 12.3.1, 13.3.0, 13.3.1, and R5 contain a critical path validation flaw that enables unauthorized file replacement attacks. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization within the system's file handling mechanisms, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file paths and potentially overwrite legitimate executable components with malicious payloads. The flaw exists in the software's directory traversal functionality where user-supplied paths are not properly validated against allowed directories, creating a pathway for attackers to navigate outside intended file hierarchies. This issue directly maps to CWE-22 - Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, a well-documented weakness that frequently appears in industrial control systems and SCADA environments. The vulnerability's impact is particularly severe in industrial automation contexts where system integrity is paramount, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise and operational disruption.
The technical implementation of this flaw allows attackers to craft malicious file paths that bypass normal access controls and directory restrictions. When the system processes user input containing specially crafted path sequences, it fails to properly validate that the target location resides within authorized directories, enabling path traversal attacks. Attackers can leverage this weakness to replace critical executable files with malicious versions, potentially gaining persistent access to the system or disrupting critical industrial processes. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges and can be executed through various attack vectors including web interfaces, configuration tools, or direct system interactions. This weakness aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell, as attackers may utilize PowerShell scripts to manipulate file paths and execute malicious code. The vulnerability's presence in multiple versions indicates a systemic design flaw rather than a simple patchable issue, making it particularly concerning for organizations with legacy systems that cannot be easily updated.
Organizations operating affected DeltaV systems face significant operational risks including potential process control failures, data integrity compromise, and unauthorized access to critical infrastructure. The vulnerability could enable attackers to execute arbitrary code, modify system configurations, or disrupt industrial processes that rely on these control systems. In environments where DeltaV systems manage critical manufacturing processes, the impact could extend to production downtime, safety system compromise, and regulatory compliance violations. The attack surface is further expanded by the fact that this vulnerability affects multiple software versions, meaning organizations may have multiple systems across their infrastructure vulnerable to similar attacks. Security teams should consider implementing network segmentation, access controls, and monitoring of file system activities to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's classification as a path traversal issue makes it particularly susceptible to automated exploitation tools that can rapidly scan for and exploit such weaknesses across industrial networks. Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation through official vendor patches and implement additional security controls including file integrity monitoring and privilege access reviews to prevent unauthorized file modifications.