Severity: Unknown
Description: An untrusted search path vulnerability in the AprolConfigureCCServices of B&R APROL <= R 4.2.-07P3 and <= R 4.4-00P3 may allow an authenticated local attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.
CVSS Score: N/A
D
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1. Risk Assessment
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-5622 is an untrusted search path issue in the AprolConfigureCCServices component of B&R APROL systems, affecting versions <= R 4.2-07P3 and <= R 4.4-00P3. This flaw allows an authenticated local attacker to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges, posing a significant risk to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems. The CVSS v4.0 base score of 7.3 (HIGH) underscores the severity of this vulnerability.
The likelihood of exploitation is moderate, as it requires local access and low privileges, but the impact is severe. Attackers could gain full control over the system, leading to potential data breaches, system manipulation, or disruption of critical operations. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in industrial automation environments, where such systems often control critical infrastructure. The ease of exploitation is relatively low, given the straightforward nature of untrusted search path vulnerabilities, which can be exploited by placing malicious files in specific directories.
2. Potential Attack Scenarios
An attacker with local access to a vulnerable B&R APROL system could exploit this vulnerability by placing a malicious executable in a directory that is searched by the AprolConfigureCCServices component. When the service attempts to load a legitimate file, it could instead execute the attacker's malicious code due to the untrusted search path.
The attack process would involve the following steps:
- The attacker gains local access to the system, either through legitimate credentials or by exploiting another vulnerability.
- The attacker identifies the directories searched by AprolConfigureCCServices and places a malicious executable in one of these directories.
- The attacker triggers the service to execute, causing it to load the malicious file instead of the intended legitimate file.
- The malicious code executes with elevated privileges, allowing the attacker to take full control of the system, exfiltrate sensitive data, or disrupt operations.
The potential outcomes include unauthorized access to sensitive information, system compromise, and operational downtime, which could have severe financial and reputational consequences for the organization.
3. Mitigation Recommendations
Immediate action is required to mitigate this vulnerability. Organizations using affected versions of B&R APROL should apply the latest patches provided by B&R Industrial Automation. The vendor has released a security advisory detailing the vulnerability and providing guidance on remediation.
Additionally, organizations should implement the following measures:
- Restrict local access to critical systems to only authorized personnel.
- Monitor and audit file system activity for unusual or unauthorized changes.
- Implement strict access controls and privilege management to limit the impact of potential exploits.
- Regularly update and patch all software components to address known vulnerabilities.
For further details, refer to the vendor's security advisory: https://www.br-automation.com/fileadmin/SA24P2014_Multiple_vulnerabilities_in_BR_APROL.pdf-367290ae.pdf
4. Executive Summary
CVE-2024-5622 is a high-severity vulnerability in B&R APROL systems that allows authenticated local attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. This poses significant risks to data confidentiality, system integrity, and operational availability, particularly in industrial automation environments.
The vulnerability is relatively easy to exploit and could lead to severe consequences, including unauthorized system access, data breaches, and operational disruptions. Immediate action is required to mitigate this risk. Organizations should apply the latest patches from B&R Industrial Automation, restrict local access to critical systems, and implement robust monitoring and access controls.
Addressing this vulnerability is critical to protecting sensitive data, maintaining operational continuity, and safeguarding the organization's reputation. Failure to act could result in significant financial and reputational damage.