CVE-2018-19002 in LAquis SCADA
Summary
by MITRE
LCDS Laquis SCADA prior to version 4.1.0.4150 allows improper control of generation of code when opening a specially crafted project file, which may allow remote code execution, data exfiltration, or cause a system crash.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-19002 affects LCDS Laquis SCADA software versions prior to 4.1.0.4150, representing a critical security flaw in industrial control systems that could have severe operational and safety implications. This vulnerability resides in the software's handling of project files, specifically when opening specially crafted files that trigger improper code generation behavior. The affected system operates within industrial environments where SCADA platforms manage critical infrastructure operations including manufacturing processes, power generation, and water treatment facilities, making the potential impact particularly concerning for operational technology environments.
The technical flaw manifests as an improper control of code generation when processing malicious project files, which creates a pathway for remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-94 category of "Improper Control of Generation of Code" and represents a classic code injection vulnerability that can be exploited through crafted input files. The flaw occurs during the file parsing and project loading phases of the SCADA software, where the application fails to properly validate or sanitize the contents of project files before executing code or generating system commands. This improper handling of user-supplied data during project file processing creates a condition where an attacker can inject malicious code that executes with the privileges of the SCADA application, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to include potential data exfiltration capabilities and system stability issues. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to extract sensitive operational data, disrupt industrial processes, or cause system crashes that could result in production downtime or safety hazards. The remote execution capability means that attackers do not need physical access to the industrial network to exploit this vulnerability, making it particularly dangerous for environments where SCADA systems are connected to corporate networks or the internet. The vulnerability's exploitation could lead to cascading failures in industrial operations, potentially affecting multiple systems within a facility's control network.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-19002 should prioritize immediate software updates to version 4.1.0.4150 or later, which contain patches addressing the improper code generation control issue. Organizations should implement network segmentation to isolate SCADA environments from general corporate networks and apply strict access controls to project file handling processes. The vulnerability aligns with several ATT&CK techniques including T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1074.001 for data staging, indicating that exploitation would likely involve code injection and data exfiltration activities. Security monitoring should focus on unusual file access patterns, unexpected code execution, and network connections from SCADA systems to external addresses. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies and restricting user permissions for SCADA project file management can significantly reduce exploitation risk while maintaining operational functionality.