CVE-2022-1467 in InTouch Access Anywhere
Summary
by MITRE • 05/24/2022
Windows OS can be configured to overlay a “language bar” on top of any application. When this OS functionality is enabled, the OS language bar UI will be viewable in the browser alongside the AVEVA InTouch Access Anywhere and Plant SCADA Access Anywhere applications. It is possible to manipulate the Windows OS language bar to launch an OS command prompt, resulting in a context-escape from application into OS.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/29/2022
This vulnerability exists within the Windows operating system's language bar functionality, which can be configured to overlay on top of any application interface. The language bar serves as a system-level input method indicator that typically appears when users are typing in different languages or using specialized input methods. When enabled, this feature creates a persistent overlay element that can interact with application windows. The specific flaw occurs in how the language bar handles user interactions and context switching within the Windows graphical environment. Applications such as AVEVA InTouch Access Anywhere and Plant SCADA Access Anywhere, which are industrial control system interfaces, are particularly vulnerable because they run within browser environments that can be overlaid by system UI elements. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and context management in the Windows shell components that handle language bar interactions.
The technical exploitation mechanism involves manipulating the Windows OS language bar to trigger a command prompt execution. This occurs through a context-escape vulnerability where the language bar overlay element can be controlled to execute operating system commands rather than remaining as a passive input indicator. The vulnerability represents a privilege escalation issue that allows an attacker to move from application context into the broader operating system environment. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-74 and CWE-79, which address injection flaws and cross-site scripting vulnerabilities in system interfaces. The exploitation pathway demonstrates a classic case of insufficient input sanitization and improper context isolation between application layers and system-level components. The language bar's overlay functionality creates an unexpected attack surface that bypasses normal application security boundaries, allowing for arbitrary command execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends significantly within industrial control environments where applications like AVEVA InTouch Access Anywhere and Plant SCADA Access Anywhere are deployed. These applications typically operate in highly secure environments where unauthorized system access can lead to critical infrastructure compromise. The vulnerability enables attackers to escape the confined application environment and gain access to underlying operating system resources, potentially allowing for privilege escalation and lateral movement within the network. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in industrial settings because it can be exploited through seemingly benign user interactions with the language bar feature. The attack vector represents a form of privilege escalation that can be executed without requiring elevated privileges initially, making it a significant threat to operational technology environments. The vulnerability can be leveraged to execute malicious code, establish persistent access, or escalate privileges to system administrator levels.
Mitigation strategies should focus on disabling the language bar overlay functionality in environments where such applications are deployed, particularly within industrial control systems and SCADA environments. Organizations should implement strict application whitelisting policies that prevent unauthorized system command execution from browser-based applications. The Windows registry settings related to language bar behavior should be configured to disable overlay functionality for security-sensitive applications. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. System administrators should regularly audit and disable unnecessary Windows features that could create similar context-escape vulnerabilities. The vulnerability also highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of system-level UI components and their interaction with application environments, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059 for command and scripting interpreter execution. Regular security updates and patch management processes should be enhanced to address such overlay and context management vulnerabilities in operating system components.