CVE-2022-2759 in Delta Robot Automation Studio
Summary
by MITRE • 08/31/2022
Delta Electronics Delta Robot Automation Studio (DRAS) versions prior to 1.13.20 are affected by improper restrictions where the software processes an XML document that can contain XML entities with URIs that resolve to documents outside of the intended sphere of control, causing the product to embed incorrect documents into its output. This may allow an attacker to view sensitive documents and information on the affected host.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/24/2022
Delta Electronics Delta Robot Automation Studio version 1.13.20 and earlier contains a vulnerability classified as an improper restriction of XML entities processing, which represents a significant security weakness in the software's XML handling mechanisms. This vulnerability stems from the application's failure to properly validate and restrict XML entities during document processing, allowing attackers to manipulate XML input in ways that can bypass normal security boundaries. The flaw exists in the software's XML parser implementation where it does not adequately sanitize external entity references, creating a path for unauthorized information disclosure through XML external entity processing.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-611, which specifically addresses improper restriction of XML external entities, making it a well-documented weakness in XML processing systems. When the DRAS software processes XML documents, it fails to properly restrict access to external resources, allowing XML entities to reference URIs that resolve to documents outside the intended scope of control. This creates a scenario where an attacker can craft malicious XML content that, when processed by the application, will attempt to retrieve and embed content from arbitrary locations on the network or filesystem. The vulnerability essentially allows for a form of information leakage where sensitive documents that should remain protected become accessible through the XML processing pipeline.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for organizations using Delta Robot Automation Studio, particularly in industrial environments where sensitive operational data, configuration files, and potentially proprietary information may be exposed. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could potentially access configuration files, system documentation, or other sensitive data stored on the host system where the software is running. This represents a critical information disclosure threat that could lead to unauthorized access to operational details, system configurations, or other sensitive materials that are not intended to be publicly accessible. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in industrial control systems where such exposure could potentially lead to operational disruption or compromise of safety-critical processes.
The attack surface for this vulnerability is primarily through XML document processing within the Delta Robot Automation Studio environment, where an attacker would need to either directly submit malicious XML content or find a way to influence the XML processing pipeline. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure, while also ensuring that all systems running DRAS are updated to version 1.13.20 or later where this vulnerability has been addressed. The fix typically involves implementing proper XML entity validation and restricting external entity access during XML processing, which aligns with recommended practices in the OWASP XML External Entity Prevention Cheat Sheet. Additionally, organizations should review their XML processing configurations and implement strict input validation to prevent similar vulnerabilities in other applications that process XML data. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper XML security controls in industrial automation software where the potential for information disclosure can have serious operational implications.