External risk intelligence

Ecostruxure Machine Expert Vulnerability Allows Malicious Code Execution.

CVE advisorySeverity: CRITICAL (CVSS 9.8)

CVE-2020-7489

A vulnerability in programming software allows for malicious code injection into controllers, potentially compromising operations and data. This poses a business risk if affected systems are accessible.

1Halo Surface Signal

Schneider Electric Ecostruxure Machine Expert

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2020-7489

This vulnerability affects programming software and industrial controller firmware. These tools are typically used in isolated engineering environments, on local workstations, or within restricted operational technology (OT) networks, and are not intended to be exposed to the public internet.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

The EcoStruxure Machine Expert and SoMachine Basic programming software contain a vulnerability related to improper handling of special characters. This flaw could enable the injection of malicious code into connected controllers. The potential impact includes the transference of harmful code, affecting system integrity and operational control.

  • Vulnerable programming software
  • Allows malicious code injection
  • Compromised controller operations

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

A vulnerability exists within programming software that can lead to the transfer of malicious code to a controller. This occurs when special elements in output are not properly neutralized, allowing for injection. The ultimate impact is a DLL substitution, which enables the execution of unauthorized code.

  • Exposure through network access.
  • Attacker initiates code injection.
  • Malicious code transfer and execution.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability could allow attackers to inject malicious code into industrial controllers. This could lead to unauthorized control or disruption of critical processes. The risk is elevated because the attack can be launched remotely without requiring any specific user interaction or prior access to the network.

  • Highly skilled attackers
  • No access or conditions required
  • Significant business risk or urgency

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability allows for the transference of malicious code to controllers through a DLL substitution. An attacker could exploit this by injecting malicious code into the programming software, potentially leading to unauthorized control or data manipulation of connected industrial systems. The attack vector is network-based, meaning the vulnerability can be exploited remotely.

  • Find affected programming software and controllers.
  • Reduce network exposure of vulnerable systems.
  • Apply vendor updates and monitor for suspicious activity.

Frequently asked questions

What is EcoStruxure Machine Expert and SoMachine Basic?

EcoStruxure Machine Expert and SoMachine Basic are programming software used for developing and managing industrial automation systems. They allow engineers to create logic and control programs for various machines and processes.

What type of vulnerability is CVE-2020-7489?

CVE-2020-7489 is an Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in Output Used by a Downstream Component (Injection) vulnerability (CWE-74). This means the software does not properly handle certain characters or code, which an attacker could use to inject malicious code.

How can attackers exploit CVE-2020-7489?

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability through DLL substitution, allowing the transference of malicious code to the controller. This could lead to unauthorized control or disruption of industrial processes. The attack vector is network-based, enabling remote exploitation.

What is the impact of CVE-2020-7489 on industrial controllers?

The exploitation of CVE-2020-7489 can result in DLL substitution, enabling malicious code to be transferred to and executed on industrial controllers. This could compromise system integrity and operational control, potentially leading to unauthorized actions or system malfunctions.

What are the recommended mitigations for CVE-2020-7489?

To mitigate this vulnerability, it is recommended to apply vendor-provided software and firmware updates. Additionally, reducing the network exposure of vulnerable systems and monitoring for suspicious activity are important security practices.

References