1. Introduction
The IGSS Data Collector is running on remote Windows hosts. This component, developed by 7-Technologies / Schneider-Electric, is part of their Interactive Graphical SCADA System (IGSS). Its presence indicates a potential attack surface if not properly secured or monitored. A successful exploit could lead to information disclosure and potentially compromise the wider SCADA system.
2. Technical Explanation
The IGSS Data Collector (‘dc.exe’) is a running process on Windows systems, indicating an installed IGSS component. While not directly exploitable as described in this report, its presence represents a potential risk if the underlying IGSS system has known vulnerabilities or misconfigurations. Attackers could attempt to leverage this component for reconnaissance or lateral movement within a network.
- Root cause: The running process indicates an installed and potentially vulnerable IGSS instance.
- Exploit mechanism: An attacker would first identify the presence of ‘dc.exe’ on a target system, then attempt to exploit known vulnerabilities in the broader IGSS software suite or associated services.
- Scope: Windows hosts with the IGSS Data Collector installed are affected. Specific versions should be checked against vendor advisories for known issues.
3. Detection and Assessment
Confirming the presence of the IGSS Data Collector is the primary assessment step. This can be done quickly using command-line tools or through process listings. Further investigation into the IGSS version is recommended to identify potential vulnerabilities.
- Quick checks: Use Task Manager or PowerShell to check for the ‘dc.exe’ process.
- Scanning: Nessus and other vulnerability scanners may have plugins to detect IGSS installations, but results should be verified manually.
- Logs and evidence: Check system event logs for events related to ‘dc.exe’ startup or configuration changes.
tasklist | findstr dc.exe4. Solution / Remediation Steps
The primary remediation step is to assess the IGSS installation and apply any necessary security patches or updates. If the system is not required, consider decommissioning it.
4.1 Preparation
- Services: No services need to be stopped for initial assessment.
4.2 Implementation
- Step 1: Visit the Schneider-Electric IGSS website (http://igss.schneider-electric.com/products/igss/index.aspx) to download the latest security patches and updates for your IGSS version.
- Step 2: Install the downloaded patches according to the vendor’s instructions.
- Step 3: Verify that the installation was successful by checking the IGSS version number.
4.3 Config or Code Example
No configuration changes are required for this remediation.
4.4 Security Practices Relevant to This Vulnerability
Regular patch management is crucial for mitigating risks associated with SCADA systems like IGSS. Least privilege principles should be applied to limit access to the system and its components.
- Practice 1: Patch cadence – Regularly update all software, including SCADA components, to address known vulnerabilities.
- Practice 2: Least privilege – Limit user accounts with access to IGSS systems to only those who require it.
4.5 Automation (Optional)
# Example PowerShell script for checking installed software:
Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_Product | Where-Object {$_.Name -like "*IGSS*"} | Select-Object Name, Version5. Verification / Validation
Confirm that the latest security patches are applied and that the IGSS version number reflects the updated installation. Perform a basic service smoke test to ensure functionality remains intact.
- Post-fix check: Use Task Manager or PowerShell to verify the IGSS Data Collector is running, then check its version against the vendor’s documentation for patched versions.
- Re-test: Re-run the ‘tasklist | findstr dc.exe’ command to confirm the process is still present and functioning.
- Smoke test: Verify that data collection from connected devices is working as expected.
Get-WmiObject -Class Win32_Product | Where-Object {$_.Name -like "*IGSS*"} | Select-Object Name, Version6. Preventive Measures and Monitoring
Implement regular security baselines for SCADA systems, including IGSS, to ensure consistent configuration and patch levels. Monitor system logs for unusual activity related to the Data Collector process.
- Baselines: Update a security baseline or policy to include required IGSS versions and configurations.
- Pipelines: Add checks in CI/CD pipelines to verify that IGSS installations meet security requirements.
- Asset and patch process: Implement a regular patch review cycle for all SCADA components, including IGSS.
7. Risks, Side Effects, and Roll Back
- Risk or side effect 1: Service interruption during patching – Schedule maintenance windows to minimize impact.
8. References and Resources
Refer to the Schneider-Electric IGSS documentation for specific security advisories and patch information.
- Vendor advisory or bulletin: http://igss.schneider-electric.com/products/igss/index.aspx