CVE-2018-7763 in U.motion Builder
Summary
by MITRE
The vulnerability exists within css.inc.php in Schneider Electric U.motion Builder software versions prior to v1.3.4. The 'css' parameter contains a directory traversal vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/24/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-7763 resides within the css.inc.php file of Schneider Electric U.motion Builder software versions earlier than v1.3.4, representing a critical directory traversal flaw that exposes the system to unauthorized file access and potential arbitrary code execution. This weakness specifically manifests through the 'css' parameter which fails to properly validate user input, allowing attackers to manipulate file paths and access sensitive system resources that should remain protected. The directory traversal vulnerability enables malicious actors to navigate beyond the intended directory structure and retrieve files that may contain configuration data, authentication credentials, or other sensitive information.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization within the css.inc.php component, where the application directly incorporates user-supplied 'css' parameter values into file system operations without proper validation or filtering mechanisms. This flaw aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability allows attackers to construct malicious file paths that can bypass normal access controls and retrieve arbitrary files from the server's file system, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
Operationally, this vulnerability presents significant risks to organizations utilizing Schneider Electric U.motion Builder software, as it can be exploited to gain unauthorized access to sensitive configuration files, user credentials, and system documentation. Attackers could leverage this weakness to escalate privileges, extract proprietary software components, or establish persistent access points within the network infrastructure. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to modify system files, install backdoors, or conduct further reconnaissance activities against connected systems. The vulnerability affects the industrial control systems environment where Schneider Electric products are commonly deployed, potentially compromising operational technology infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-7763 should prioritize immediate patch application to Schneider Electric U.motion Builder software versions v1.3.4 or later, which contain the necessary input validation fixes to prevent directory traversal attacks. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of affected systems, while also deploying web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious path traversal attempts. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file access patterns and directory traversal attempts in system logs, with regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar weaknesses in other components of the industrial control environment. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1566 for credential access, highlighting the potential for privilege escalation and lateral movement within affected networks. Regular security updates and vulnerability management processes should be enforced to prevent similar issues in other industrial automation software components.