CVE-2022-24312 in Interactive Graphical SCADA System Data Server
Summary
by MITRE • 02/10/2022
A CWE-22: Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory vulnerability exists that could cause modification of an existing file by adding at end of file or create a new file in the context of the Data Server potentially leading to remote code execution when an attacker sends a specially crafted message. Affected Product: Interactive Graphical SCADA System Data Server (V15.0.0.22020 and prior)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/13/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-24312 represents a critical path traversal flaw classified under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory. This weakness manifests within the Interactive Graphical SCADA System Data Server version 15.0.0.22020 and earlier releases, creating a significant security risk that extends beyond simple file manipulation to potentially enable remote code execution. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and path resolution mechanisms within the data server's file handling processes, allowing malicious actors to exploit the system's file system access controls through crafted network messages.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker sends specially crafted messages to the Data Server, which then processes these inputs without proper sanitization of file path components. The flaw enables attackers to manipulate file system operations by appending data to existing files or creating new files in unauthorized directories, effectively bypassing the intended security boundaries of the system. This path traversal capability operates at the core of the server's file handling functionality, where the system fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied path information before executing file system operations. The vulnerability's impact is particularly severe because it operates within the context of the Data Server itself, meaning that successful exploitation can occur without requiring additional authentication or privileged access beyond the initial network communication.
The operational implications of this vulnerability extend far beyond simple data modification, as it creates a potential pathway for complete system compromise through remote code execution. When an attacker successfully exploits this flaw, they can manipulate the data server's file system to inject malicious code or modify critical system files, potentially leading to full system control. The vulnerability's presence in a SCADA system environment amplifies the risk significantly, as these systems often control critical infrastructure components where unauthorized access could result in operational disruptions, safety hazards, or security breaches. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that SCADA systems typically operate in environments where continuous operation is critical, making exploitation potentially devastating to industrial processes and safety systems.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including patching to the latest available version of the Interactive Graphical SCADA System Data Server, which addresses the path traversal vulnerability through enhanced input validation and proper path resolution mechanisms. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit exposure of the data server to untrusted networks, while monitoring systems should be enhanced to detect anomalous file system access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing proper input validation at multiple layers of the system architecture, including application-level sanitization of file path components and enforcement of strict file access controls, will help prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1078.004 for Valid Accounts, as exploitation requires understanding of the system's file structure and potentially leveraging legitimate access to execute malicious payloads through the vulnerable data server interface.