CVE-2020-12499 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Discover the details of CVE-2020-12499 affecting PHOENIX CONTACT PLCnext Engineer version 2020.3.1 and earlier. Learn about the impact, mitigation steps, and recommended updates.
PHOENIX CONTACT PLCnext Engineer version 2020.3.1 and earlier: Improper path sanitation vulnerability.
Understanding CVE-2020-12499
In PHOENIX CONTACT PLCnext Engineer version 2020.3.1 and earlier, an improper path sanitation vulnerability exists, affecting the import of project files.
What is CVE-2020-12499?
This CVE refers to a security flaw in PHOENIX CONTACT PLCnext Engineer version 2020.3.1 and earlier, allowing attackers to manipulate file paths during project file imports.
The Impact of CVE-2020-12499
- CVSS Base Score: 8.2 (High)
- Severity: High
- Attack Vector: Local
- Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability Impact: High
- Scope: Changed
- User Interaction: Required
- This vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access, data manipulation, and service disruption.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-12499
PHOENIX CONTACT PLCnext Engineer version 2020.3.1 and earlier vulnerability details.
Vulnerability Description
- The vulnerability involves improper path sanitation during the import of project files, potentially allowing path traversal attacks.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: PLCnext Engineer
- Vendor: PHOENIX CONTACT
- Vulnerable Versions: <= 2020.3.1 (Custom version)
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Privileges Required: Low
- Exploitation may require local access and user interaction, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
Mitigation and Prevention
Actions to mitigate and prevent exploitation of CVE-2020-12499.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Exchange project files securely using trusted file exchange services.
- Avoid importing project files from unknown sources.
- Use checksums to verify the integrity of project files.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update to the latest version of PLCnext Engineer (2020.6 or higher).
- Educate users on secure file handling practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
- Phoenix Contact recommends updating to PLCnext Engineer 2020.6 or higher to address this vulnerability.