CVE-2023-4487 in CIMPLICITY
Summary
by MITRE • 09/06/2023
GE CIMPLICITY 2023 is by a process control vulnerability, which could allow a local attacker to insert malicious configuration files in the expected web server execution path to escalate privileges and gain full control of the HMI software.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/27/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-4487 affects GE CIMPLICITY 2023, a widely used human machine interface software in industrial control systems. This process control vulnerability represents a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of the HMI environment by enabling local attackers to manipulate the software execution path. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms that allow unauthorized file insertion into paths typically reserved for legitimate web server operations, creating a dangerous attack surface within industrial automation environments.
The technical flaw manifests through improper input validation and inadequate access controls within the CIMPLICITY software architecture. When a local attacker successfully places malicious configuration files in the expected web server execution path, the system's normal operation becomes compromised. This misconfiguration allows the attacker to manipulate the software's execution flow, effectively bypassing standard security boundaries that should prevent unauthorized code execution. The vulnerability specifically targets the privilege escalation mechanism, enabling attackers to elevate their privileges from standard user access to full administrative control over the HMI software environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity and availability of industrial control systems. Full control over the HMI software enables attackers to manipulate real-time process data, alter operational parameters, and potentially cause physical damage to industrial equipment. The implications are particularly severe in critical infrastructure environments where CIMPLICITY is deployed for process control and monitoring. The local attack vector means that an attacker must first gain access to the system, but once inside, the vulnerability provides a pathway to complete system compromise without requiring additional external attack vectors.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of industrial control system security frameworks and attack patterns documented in the ATT&CK framework under the privilege escalation and persistence tactics. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 (Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory) and CWE-74 (Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component). Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including restricting local user access, implementing strict file path validation, and deploying monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized file modifications in critical system directories. Regular security assessments and vulnerability management programs should prioritize this issue given its potential to enable complete system compromise in industrial environments.