CVE-2018-7774 in U.motion Builder
Summary
by MITRE
The vulnerability exists within processing of localize.php in Schneider Electric U.motion Builder software versions prior to v1.3.4. The underlying SQLite database query is subject to SQL injection on the username input parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/24/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-7774 resides within the Schneider Electric U.motion Builder software ecosystem, specifically within the localize.php component that handles localization processes. This issue affects versions prior to v1.3.4 and represents a critical security flaw that directly impacts the software's authentication and access control mechanisms. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the application's database interaction layer, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system through database manipulation techniques. The software's localization functionality, which is designed to adapt user interfaces and content based on regional settings, becomes a vector for unauthorized database access when the username parameter is not properly sanitized.
The technical flaw manifests as a SQL injection vulnerability in the underlying SQLite database query processing. When the localize.php script receives a username input parameter, it fails to properly validate or escape the input before incorporating it into database queries. This omission allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code through the username field, potentially enabling them to execute arbitrary database commands, extract sensitive information, or manipulate the database contents. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the database interaction layer, meaning that successful exploitation could provide attackers with access to user credentials, system configurations, and other sensitive data stored within the SQLite database. The lack of proper parameterization or input sanitization creates an environment where attacker-controlled input can directly influence the SQL query execution flow.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to the Schneider Electric U.motion Builder environment and potentially compromise the entire system. Given that U.motion Builder is used for industrial automation and control system configuration, the consequences of unauthorized access could be severe, potentially allowing attackers to modify control parameters, disrupt operations, or gain persistent access to industrial networks. The vulnerability affects the authentication and authorization mechanisms, which could lead to privilege escalation scenarios where attackers might elevate their privileges within the system. Additionally, the exploitation could result in data integrity issues, as malicious SQL commands could modify or delete critical database records, potentially affecting system stability and operational continuity. The vulnerability's presence in the localization component also suggests potential impacts on user experience and system availability.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-7774 should focus on immediate remediation through the official software update to version 1.3.4 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the SQL injection vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent similar issues in the future, ensuring that all user inputs are properly sanitized before database interaction. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit exposure of the affected software components to untrusted networks. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, and falls under ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services through SQL injection attacks. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities across the industrial control system environment, particularly focusing on database interaction components and input validation mechanisms.