CVE-2021-32497 in SOPAS ET
Summary
by MITRE • 12/17/2021
SICK SOPAS ET before version 4.8.0 allows attackers to wrap any executable file into an SDD and provide this to a SOPAS ET user. When a user starts the emulator the executable is run without further checks.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/24/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-32497 affects SICK SOPAS ET software versions prior to 4.8.0, representing a critical security flaw in industrial automation control systems. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and execution control mechanisms within the software's handling of SDD (SICK Device Description) files. The flaw enables attackers to craft malicious SDD files that contain embedded executable payloads, exploiting the software's trust model where any SDD file can be executed without proper verification or sanitization. This represents a significant risk in industrial environments where operational technology systems are increasingly interconnected and exposed to cyber threats.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of SDD file structures to include executable components that are automatically executed when users launch the SOPAS ET emulator. The software's design assumes that all SDD files are legitimate and safe, creating a trust boundary that attackers can exploit by embedding malicious code within seemingly benign device description files. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which describes the weakness of allowing untrusted data to be processed as code, and specifically relates to the improper handling of executable content within configuration or description files. The attack vector requires social engineering to convince users to open the malicious SDD file, but once executed, the payload runs with the privileges of the user running the emulator.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise within industrial control environments. When an attacker successfully executes malicious code through this vector, they gain the ability to perform arbitrary operations on the system, potentially leading to data exfiltration, system modification, or disruption of industrial processes. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and availability of industrial control systems, as it allows attackers to execute unauthorized code on devices that are typically considered secure within their operational environments. The risk is particularly concerning given that many industrial systems operate in air-gapped environments where traditional network-based security measures may be insufficient, making local code execution through file manipulation a particularly dangerous attack vector.
Organizations should implement multiple layers of defense to mitigate this vulnerability, beginning with immediate software updates to version 4.8.0 or later where the issue has been addressed. System administrators must establish strict file handling policies and implement automated scanning mechanisms for SDD files before they are processed by the emulator. The mitigation strategy should include user education to prevent social engineering attacks and establish protocols for verifying the legitimacy of device description files. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques such as T1204.002 (User Execution: Malicious File) and T1059.001 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell), highlighting the need for comprehensive endpoint protection and execution control measures. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation, as well as regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other industrial control system components.