CVE-2022-0369 in SCADA Data Gateway
Summary
by MITRE • 05/08/2024
Triangle MicroWorks SCADA Data Gateway Restore Workspace Directory Traversal Remote Code Execution Vulnerability. This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected installations of Triangle MicroWorks SCADA Data Gateway. Although authentication is required to exploit this vulnerability, the existing authentication mechanism can be bypassed.
The specific flaw exists within the Restore Workspace feature. The issue results from the lack of proper validation of a user-supplied path prior to using it in file operations. An attacker can leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of SYSTEM. Was ZDI-CAN-17227.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/14/2025
The CVE-2022-0369 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in Triangle MicroWorks SCADA Data Gateway software that exposes organizations to significant remote code execution risks. This vulnerability specifically targets the Restore Workspace functionality within the SCADA gateway system, which serves as a critical component for managing industrial control system configurations. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize user-supplied paths before processing file operations. According to CWE-22, this vulnerability falls under the category of directory traversal attacks where improper input validation allows attackers to manipulate file system access patterns. The security implications extend beyond simple path manipulation as the vulnerability can be exploited to execute arbitrary code with SYSTEM privileges, effectively granting attackers complete control over the affected system. This represents a severe compromise in industrial cybersecurity where operational technology systems become vulnerable to remote exploitation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability demonstrates how insufficient validation of user inputs can create dangerous pathways for attackers to gain elevated privileges within industrial environments. Attackers can craft malicious payloads that exploit the lack of proper path validation during workspace restoration operations, allowing them to traverse directory structures and execute code in the highest privilege context available. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution issue means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making it particularly dangerous for critical infrastructure deployments. The fact that authentication is required but can be bypassed creates a multi-layered attack vector where initial credential compromise can be followed by privilege escalation through the directory traversal mechanism. This vulnerability specifically affects industrial control systems where the SCADA Data Gateway acts as a bridge between operational technology and information technology environments, making it a prime target for sophisticated cyber attacks targeting industrial espionage and operational disruption.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-0369 extends far beyond traditional information technology concerns into the realm of industrial safety and operational continuity. Organizations utilizing Triangle MicroWorks SCADA systems face potential risks including unauthorized access to critical control systems, data manipulation, and complete system compromise that could lead to operational disruptions or safety hazards. The vulnerability's ability to execute code with SYSTEM privileges means that attackers can potentially modify system configurations, access sensitive operational data, or even manipulate industrial processes that could have physical consequences. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1210 which involves exploitation of remote services to gain system access, and T1059 which covers execution through command and scripting interpreters. The attack surface for this vulnerability includes not only direct network access to the SCADA gateway but also potential lateral movement opportunities within industrial networks where such systems are deployed. Organizations must consider the broader implications for their industrial cybersecurity posture, as this vulnerability could enable attackers to establish persistent access to critical infrastructure environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-0369 should encompass both immediate patching and long-term security enhancements to protect industrial control systems from similar vulnerabilities. The primary remediation involves applying vendor-provided security updates and patches that address the directory traversal flaw in the Restore Workspace functionality. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to SCADA systems to authorized personnel only, while ensuring that authentication mechanisms are properly configured and monitored for unauthorized access attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and secure coding practices within industrial software development, particularly for systems handling critical infrastructure operations. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual file access patterns and potential directory traversal attempts within SCADA environments. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network access controls that restrict remote access to SCADA systems, as well as maintaining comprehensive backup and recovery procedures that can address potential compromise scenarios. The vulnerability serves as a reminder that industrial cybersecurity requires continuous vigilance and proactive security measures to protect against evolving threats targeting operational technology environments.