^{CVE-2020-25176:}Path Traversal Vulnerability in Rockwell Automation ISaGRAF Runtime

Overview

The vulnerability affects the ISaGRAF Runtime Versions 4.x and 5.x developed by Rockwell Automation. The issue stems from insufficient input validation in the eXchange Layer (IXL) protocol when handling file operations. When processing commands that involve file operations, the software fails to properly sanitize file name parameters, allowing attackers to use path traversal sequences (such as "../") to access files and directories outside the intended scope. An unauthenticated remote attacker could exploit this vulnerability to access sensitive files, modify system configurations, or potentially execute arbitrary code on the affected system. This vulnerability poses significant risks to industrial control systems and operational technology environments where ISaGRAF Runtime is deployed.

Remediation

Organizations using affected versions of Rockwell Automation ISaGRAF Runtime should implement the following mitigations:

1. Apply the latest security patches and updates provided by Rockwell Automation as detailed in their security advisory.
2. If patching is not immediately possible, implement network segmentation to restrict access to systems running the vulnerable software.
3. Use firewalls to block unauthorized access to the IXL protocol.
4. Monitor systems for suspicious activities, particularly unusual file access patterns.
5. Follow the specific remediation guidance provided in the Schneider Electric security advisory (SEVD-2021-159-04).
6. For Xylem MultiSmart products that use the affected component, refer to the Xylem cybersecurity advisory for product-specific mitigation strategies.
7. Consider implementing the principle of least privilege for all industrial control system components.
8. Ensure proper network segmentation between IT and OT networks where these systems are deployed.

References

1. Schneider Electric Security Advisory (SEVD-2021-159-04): https://download.schneider-electric.com/files?p_Doc_Ref=SEVD-2021-159-04
2. Rockwell Automation Knowledge Base Article: https://rockwellautomation.custhelp.com/app/answers/answer_view/a_id/1131699
3. CISA ICS Advisory (ICSA-20-280-01): https://www.cisa.gov/uscert/ics/advisories/icsa-20-280-01
4. Xylem MultiSmart Cybersecurity Advisory: https://www.xylem.com/siteassets/about-xylem/cybersecurity/advisories/xylem-multismart-rockwell-isagraf.pdf
5. Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE-22): Path Traversal