CVE-2021-33009 in myPRO
Summary
by MITRE • 05/13/2022
mySCADA myPRO versions prior to 8.20.0 allows an unauthenticated remote attacker to upload arbitrary files to the file system.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/16/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-33009 affects mySCADA myPRO software versions before 8.20.0, presenting a critical security flaw that enables unauthenticated remote code execution through arbitrary file upload capabilities. This vulnerability resides within industrial control systems designed for monitoring and control applications, making it particularly concerning for operational technology environments where system integrity and security are paramount. The flaw allows attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms and directly upload malicious files to the target system's file system without requiring valid credentials or access privileges.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and insufficient access controls within the file upload functionality of the myPRO software. Attackers can exploit this weakness by sending specially crafted requests to the application's file upload endpoint, which fails to properly validate file types, extensions, or content before storing uploaded files on the server. This absence of proper sanitization and validation creates an attack surface where malicious files such as web shells, executables, or script files can be successfully uploaded and subsequently executed within the target environment. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which describes insecure file upload vulnerabilities where applications accept files from untrusted sources without proper validation mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with persistent footholds within industrial control systems. Once successfully exploited, attackers can establish backdoors, deploy malware, or manipulate system configurations to disrupt operations or gain deeper access to network infrastructure. The implications are particularly severe in industrial environments where these systems control critical processes, as the ability to upload arbitrary files can lead to system compromise, operational disruption, or even physical safety hazards. This vulnerability directly enables techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1195 for supplying malware and T1059 for command and scripting interpreter, allowing attackers to execute malicious code remotely.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including upgrading to myPRO version 8.20.0 or later, which contains proper file validation and authentication controls. Network segmentation should be enforced to limit access to these industrial control systems, while implementing strict firewall rules to restrict file upload functionality to authorized networks only. Additional protective measures include deploying web application firewalls to monitor and filter file upload requests, implementing file type restrictions, and conducting regular security assessments of industrial control system components. Security teams should also establish monitoring protocols to detect unusual file upload activities and maintain comprehensive incident response procedures specifically tailored for industrial control system environments. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of securing operational technology systems against remote exploitation and highlights the need for robust security practices in industrial environments where traditional cybersecurity measures may be insufficient.