CVE-2020-16213
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability in Advantech WebAccess HMI Designer allows attackers to execute arbitrary code by tricking users into opening malicious project files. It affects industrial control system operators using vulnerable versions of this HMI design software. Successful exploitation could compromise the entire HMI development environment.
💻 Affected Systems
- Advantech WebAccess HMI Designer
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Remote code execution leading to complete system compromise, lateral movement to industrial control networks, and potential disruption of critical infrastructure operations.
Likely Case
Local privilege escalation leading to unauthorized access to HMI design projects, theft of intellectual property, and potential manipulation of industrial control logic.
If Mitigated
Application crash with denial of service to HMI design functionality, but no code execution due to proper security controls.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires user interaction to open malicious project files. The vulnerability is well-documented with public advisories.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: 2.1.9.32 or later
Vendor Advisory: https://us-cert.cisa.gov/ics/advisories/icsa-20-219-02
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Download updated version from Advantech support portal. 2. Uninstall current version. 3. Install updated version. 4. Restart system.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Restrict project file execution
windowsConfigure Windows to open .prj files with a text editor instead of HMI Designer
Right-click .prj file > Open With > Choose another app > Select Notepad > Always use this app
Application whitelisting
windowsUse AppLocker or similar to restrict execution of HMI Designer to authorized users only
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Isolate HMI Designer workstations from production networks and internet access
- Implement strict user training about opening project files from untrusted sources
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check Help > About in HMI Designer for version number. Versions 2.1.9.31 and earlier are vulnerable.Check Version:
Not applicable - check via GUI Help > About menuVerify Fix Applied:
Verify version is 2.1.9.32 or later in Help > About dialog.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Application crashes of HMI Designer
- Unusual process creation from HMI Designer
- Failed attempts to open corrupted project files
Network Indicators:
- Unusual network connections originating from HMI Designer workstations
- File transfers of .prj files to engineering workstations
SIEM Query:
EventID=1000 OR EventID=1001 Source='HMI Designer' OR ProcessName='HMI Designer.exe' AND (CommandLine CONTAINS '.prj' OR ParentProcess CONTAINS 'explorer.exe')