CVE-2024-22178 in OAS Platform
Summary
by MITRE • 04/03/2024
A file write vulnerability exists in the OAS Engine Save Security Configuration functionality of Open Automation Software OAS Platform V19.00.0057. A specially crafted series of network requests can lead to arbitrary file creation or overwrite. An attacker can send a sequence of requests to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/03/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-22178 represents a critical file write flaw within the Open Automation Software OAS Platform version 19.00.0057. This security weakness resides in the engine's save security configuration functionality, which is designed to manage and persist security settings for automation processes. The flaw allows unauthorized parties to manipulate the system's file handling mechanisms through carefully constructed network communications, potentially enabling malicious actors to execute arbitrary file operations on the affected system.
This vulnerability constitutes a directory traversal and arbitrary file write issue that stems from insufficient input validation and improper access controls within the security configuration saving process. The OAS Platform's security configuration management module fails to adequately sanitize user-supplied data when processing save requests, creating an opportunity for attackers to specify arbitrary file paths and overwrite existing files or create new ones with potentially elevated privileges. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and requires network access to exploit, making it particularly dangerous in environments where automation platforms are exposed to untrusted networks or where administrative access might be compromised.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file manipulation, as it can enable attackers to compromise the integrity of the entire automation platform. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could overwrite critical system files, inject malicious code into configuration files, or create backdoor access points within the automation environment. This represents a significant threat to industrial control systems and operational technology environments where the OAS Platform is deployed, as it could potentially disrupt critical manufacturing processes or enable lateral movement within networked automation infrastructures. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Directory Traversal and CWE-74 Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component, both of which are classified as high-risk issues in the CWE database.
From an attack perspective, this vulnerability follows patterns consistent with the MITRE ATT&CK framework's technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1486 Data Encrypted for Ransom. The ability to write arbitrary files provides attackers with multiple attack vectors including payload delivery, persistence mechanisms, and privilege escalation opportunities. The exploitation requires only network connectivity and does not demand physical access or specialized hardware, making it particularly concerning for environments where automation systems are connected to enterprise networks or the internet. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability can be leveraged for privilege escalation attacks when the automation platform runs with elevated permissions, potentially enabling attackers to compromise the underlying operating system or other connected systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-22178 should prioritize immediate patching of the OAS Platform to the latest available version that addresses this specific vulnerability. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to automation platforms and restrict the attack surface through proper firewall rules and access controls. Additionally, monitoring network traffic for suspicious patterns related to configuration save requests and file write operations can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The implementation of principle of least privilege for automation platform accounts and regular security audits of configuration files can provide additional layers of protection. System administrators should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify anomalous file modification patterns consistent with this vulnerability type. Organizations using the affected platform should also review their incident response procedures to ensure rapid detection and remediation of any exploitation attempts.