CVE-2020-24682 in Studio
Summary
by MITRE • 02/02/2024
Unquoted Search Path or Element vulnerability in B&R Industrial Automation Automation Studio, B&R Industrial Automation NET/PVI allows Target Programs with Elevated Privileges.This issue affects Automation Studio: from 4.6.0 through 4.6.X, from 4.7.0 before 4.7.7 SP, from 4.8.0 before 4.8.6 SP, from 4.9.0 before 4.9.4 SP; NET/PVI: from 4.6.0 through 4.6.X, from 4.7.0 before 4.7.7, from 4.8.0 before 4.8.6, from 4.9.0 before 4.9.4.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/25/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-24682 represents a critical unquoted search path or element weakness within B&R Industrial Automation's Automation Studio and NET/PVI software platforms. This flaw exists in multiple version ranges spanning from 4.6.0 through 4.6.X, 4.7.0 before 4.7.7 SP, 4.8.0 before 4.8.6 SP, and 4.9.0 before 4.9.4 SP, affecting both the Automation Studio and NET/PVI components. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of search paths where the software does not properly quote directory paths during execution, creating opportunities for privilege escalation attacks.
This security weakness falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-178, which specifically addresses improper handling of unquoted search paths. The technical flaw manifests when the software attempts to locate and execute target programs, but due to the lack of proper path quoting, it may inadvertently execute malicious code placed in directories that appear earlier in the search path. When programs are launched with elevated privileges, as is common in industrial automation environments, this creates a significant risk that attackers can exploit to gain unauthorized access to critical system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is particularly severe in industrial control systems where Automation Studio and NET/PVI are commonly deployed. Attackers who successfully exploit this weakness can potentially execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the target program, which typically includes elevated system rights necessary for industrial automation operations. This could lead to complete system compromise, disruption of critical manufacturing processes, data manipulation, or unauthorized access to sensitive operational technology environments. The vulnerability is especially dangerous because it allows privilege escalation without requiring additional authentication or exploitation techniques.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper path quoting practices within the software configuration and ensuring that all directory paths are properly quoted during program execution. System administrators should apply the latest patches and service packs released by B&R Industrial Automation, particularly those addressing versions 4.7.7 SP, 4.8.6 SP, and 4.9.4 SP where the vulnerability has been resolved. Additional protective measures include implementing least privilege principles for automation software, conducting regular security audits of industrial control system environments, and ensuring that all system components are properly configured to prevent unauthorized code execution in critical directories. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the use of weak search paths to gain elevated system access, making it a critical concern for industrial cybersecurity defenses.