CVE-2018-17899 in LAquis SCADA
Summary
by MITRE
LAquis SCADA Versions 4.1.0.3870 and prior has a path traversal vulnerability, which may allow remote code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/29/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-17899 affects LAquis SCADA versions 4.1.0.3870 and earlier, representing a critical path traversal flaw that exposes industrial control systems to remote code execution risks. This vulnerability resides within the SCADA software's file handling mechanisms, where insufficient input validation allows attackers to manipulate file paths and access restricted system resources. The affected system operates within industrial environments where SCADA platforms control critical infrastructure components including power grids, water treatment facilities, and manufacturing processes, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous for operational technology environments.
The technical exploitation of this path traversal vulnerability occurs when the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input that influences file system operations. Attackers can craft malicious requests that manipulate file path parameters to traverse directory structures and access files outside the intended application scope. This flaw typically manifests through HTTP requests or API calls where file operations are performed without adequate validation of path components. The vulnerability enables attackers to read arbitrary files, execute commands on the underlying operating system, and potentially gain full system compromise, making it a severe threat to industrial control system security.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-17899 extends beyond simple data theft or system disruption, as it provides attackers with the capability to manipulate critical industrial processes and potentially cause physical damage to infrastructure. In industrial settings, this vulnerability could enable attackers to modify control parameters, disrupt production processes, or gain unauthorized access to sensitive operational data. The remote code execution capability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, allowing them to operate from external networks and potentially cause widespread damage across connected industrial assets. This vulnerability directly violates security principles of least privilege and input validation that are fundamental to protecting operational technology environments.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including updating to the latest version of LAquis SCADA that addresses the path traversal flaw, applying network segmentation to limit access to SCADA systems, and implementing robust input validation controls. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and follows attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under techniques such as T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1078 Valid Accounts. Security teams should conduct comprehensive network monitoring to detect potential exploitation attempts, implement web application firewalls to filter malicious requests, and establish privileged access management controls to minimize the impact of potential compromise. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in industrial control system environments and ensure continued protection against evolving threats.