CVE-2022-31216 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Discover how a local privilege escalation vulnerability in ABB's Drive Composer software enables attackers to create and write files with arbitrary content. Learn about the impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
A vulnerability in ABB's Drive Composer software allows a low privileged attacker to create and write to a file on the system with arbitrary content. This vulnerability was discovered by Michael DePlante of Trend Micro Zero Day Initiative. ABB has provided solutions and workarounds to address this issue.
Understanding CVE-2022-31216
This CVE highlights a local privilege escalation vulnerability in the Drive Composer software, impacting multiple products under the ABB brand.
What is CVE-2022-31216?
Vulnerabilities in Drive Composer allow an attacker to create and write to a file anywhere on the system as SYSTEM with arbitrary content, exploiting the low privileges.
The Impact of CVE-2022-31216
The vulnerability poses a high risk, with a CVSS base score of 7.8. Attackers can compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability on affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2022-31216
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows a low privileged attacker to create and write to a file on the system with arbitrary content when the file doesn't exist.
Affected Systems and Versions
Affected products include Drive Composer entry, Drive Composer pro, ABB Automation Builder (versions 1.1.0 to 2.5.0), and Mint WorkBench (build 5866).
Exploitation Mechanism
An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by running a 'repair' operation on the Drive Composer installer file, escalating privileges locally.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
To mitigate the vulnerability, users are advised to update affected products. Solutions have been released for Drive Composer entry and pro versions.
Long-Term Security Practices
ABB recommends applying updates promptly. Additionally, users can follow specific steps within ABB Automation Builder to mitigate risks and maintain system integrity.
Patching and Updates
Updated versions of Drive Composer are available, including Drive Composer entry version 2.7.1, Drive Composer pro version 2.7.1, and Mint WorkBench build 5868. ABB Automation Builder 2.5.1 and Mint WorkBench Build 5868 updates are expected in Q3/2022.