CVE-2021-22697 in EcoStruxure Power Build Rapsody
Summary
by MITRE • 01/26/2021
A CWE-434: Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type vulnerability exists in the EcoStruxure Power Build - Rapsody software (V2.1.13 and prior) that could allow a use-after-free condition which could result in remote code execution when a malicious SSD file is uploaded and improperly parsed.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/20/2021
The CVE-2021-22697 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure Power Build - Rapsody software version 2.1.13 and earlier. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-434, which specifically addresses unrestricted file uploads with dangerous types, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to compromise industrial control systems. The software is designed for power distribution management and control, making it a potential target for sophisticated cyber attacks that could disrupt critical infrastructure operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the file upload functionality of the Rapsody software. When a user uploads an SSD file, the application fails to properly validate the file type, file content, or file extension against a comprehensive whitelist of acceptable formats. This oversight creates an opportunity for malicious actors to upload specially crafted files that exploit a use-after-free condition in the software's parsing mechanism. The use-after-free vulnerability occurs when the application attempts to access memory that has already been freed, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of the running application.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it could enable attackers to gain persistent access to power distribution systems that are critical for industrial operations. The vulnerability's exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to system resources, data exfiltration, and potentially disrupt power distribution services. The use-after-free condition creates a particularly dangerous scenario where attackers can manipulate memory contents to inject malicious code, potentially escalating privileges and establishing backdoors within the industrial control environment. This type of vulnerability is especially concerning in operational technology environments where system availability and integrity are paramount.
Security practitioners should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability, starting with immediate software updates to version 2.1.14 or later where the issue has been addressed. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the Rapsody software to only authorized personnel and systems. Input validation controls must be strengthened to enforce strict file type checking, including content-based verification rather than relying solely on file extensions. The principle of least privilege should be enforced, ensuring that the application runs with minimal required permissions. Additionally, implementing file integrity monitoring and anomaly detection systems can help identify potential exploitation attempts. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1195.001 for the use of malicious file uploads and T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter usage, making it a comprehensive target for both initial access and execution phases of cyber attacks. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting solutions to prevent unauthorized executables from running on systems hosting the vulnerable software, as recommended by NIST SP 800-84 guidelines for industrial control systems security.