CVE-2020-12499 in PLCnext Engineer
Summary
by MITRE
In PHOENIX CONTACT PLCnext Engineer version 2020.3.1 and earlier an improper path sanitation vulnerability exists on import of project files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/05/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-12499 affects PHOENIX CONTACT PLCnext Engineer version 2020.3.1 and earlier, representing a critical security flaw in industrial automation software. This issue stems from inadequate input validation during the project file import process, creating a potential attack vector that could compromise the integrity of industrial control systems. The vulnerability specifically manifests when the software processes project files that contain maliciously crafted paths, allowing unauthorized code execution or system manipulation through improper path sanitization.
This flaw constitutes a path traversal vulnerability classified under CWE-22, which occurs when an application allows access to files or directories outside of its intended scope through manipulation of input paths. The improper path sanitation means that when users import project files, the software fails to properly validate or sanitize file paths that might contain directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ that could allow attackers to access restricted system locations. The vulnerability exists within the import functionality of the PLCnext Engineer software, which is commonly used for programming and configuring industrial programmable logic controllers.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends significantly within industrial environments where PLCnext Engineer is deployed, as it could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to system resources or execute arbitrary code on the affected systems. In industrial control systems, such vulnerabilities pose serious risks to operational technology infrastructure, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate control processes, access sensitive configuration data, or disrupt critical manufacturing operations. The attack surface is particularly concerning in environments where these systems are connected to corporate networks or where users might import project files from untrusted sources, creating opportunities for privilege escalation or lateral movement within industrial networks.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate software updates to versions that address the path sanitization issue, as well as implementing strict access controls and network segmentation for systems running PLCnext Engineer. Organizations should enforce the principle of least privilege for users accessing these tools and implement network monitoring to detect suspicious file import activities. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices in industrial software development, particularly regarding input validation and path handling. Security professionals should consider implementing application whitelisting policies and regular security assessments of industrial control systems to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities. Additionally, the incident underscores the need for robust software supply chain security measures and regular vulnerability assessments in operational technology environments.