CVE-2022-2789 in Proficy Machine Edition
Summary
by MITRE • 08/20/2022
Emerson Electric's Proficy Machine Edition Version 9.00 and prior is vulnerable to CWE-345 Insufficient Verification of Data Authenticity, and can display logic that is different than the compiled logic.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/24/2022
Emerson Electric's Proficy Machine Edition software version 9.00 and earlier contains a critical vulnerability classified as CWE-345 Insufficient Verification of Data Authenticity, which fundamentally undermines the integrity of industrial control systems. This vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate the logic displayed within the software environment, creating a scenario where the operational interface presents information that differs significantly from the actual compiled logic executed by the system. The flaw resides in the software's failure to properly authenticate and validate the integrity of data inputs and logic files, creating an attack surface where malicious actors can introduce unauthorized changes without detection.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate cryptographic verification mechanisms and insufficient input validation within the software's logic handling processes. When Proficy Machine Edition loads logic files or configuration data, it does not perform robust authenticity checks that would ensure the data has not been tampered with during transmission or storage. This weakness enables attackers to potentially substitute modified logic files that appear legitimate to the system but contain malicious or unauthorized modifications. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in industrial environments where operational technology systems must maintain strict integrity and authenticity guarantees.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data manipulation, as it creates a potential pathway for attackers to introduce malicious logic that could compromise industrial processes. In manufacturing and process control environments, this could lead to unauthorized system behavior, production disruptions, or even safety hazards if the altered logic affects critical control functions. The discrepancy between displayed and actual logic creates a situation where operators may make decisions based on false information, potentially leading to incorrect operational responses or failure to detect actual system issues. This vulnerability directly impacts the CIA triad by compromising integrity and potentially availability, as the system may execute unintended logic while appearing to function normally.
Organizations using Proficy Machine Edition software should implement immediate mitigations including enhanced network segmentation to limit access to the software environment, deployment of integrity checking mechanisms, and regular monitoring for unauthorized modifications to logic files. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.002 for credential access and T1070.004 for indicator removal, as attackers could leverage this weakness to establish persistent access while avoiding detection through falsified system displays. Additionally, implementing proper code signing verification and digital signature validation would significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized logic modifications. Organizations should also consider regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify potential exploitation vectors and ensure that their industrial control systems maintain the required integrity guarantees for operational safety and security.