CVE-2022-29826 is a vulnerability identified in Mitsubishi Electric Corporation's GX Works3 software, specifically affecting versions from 1.000A to 1.087R, as well as related Motion Control Setting software versions from 1.000A to 1.042U. The core issue is the cleartext storage of sensitive information, categorized under CWE-312. This vulnerability allows a remote, unauthenticated attacker to access sensitive data stored by the software without needing any credentials or user interaction. The sensitive information exposed includes program and project files used in industrial automation and control systems. Because these files can contain proprietary logic, configuration details, and operational parameters, unauthorized disclosure can lead to intellectual property theft, unauthorized program execution, or manipulation of industrial processes. The vulnerability arises from improper handling of sensitive data within the software, where critical information is stored in an unencrypted or otherwise unprotected format. This flaw enables attackers to retrieve this data remotely, potentially through network access to the affected systems or software components. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the risk remains significant due to the nature of the affected software, which is widely used in industrial control environments. The vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction, increasing the attack surface and ease of exploitation. The lack of encryption or secure storage mechanisms for sensitive information compromises confidentiality and integrity, and could indirectly affect availability if attackers leverage the disclosed information to execute unauthorized programs or disrupt operations.

For European organizations, particularly those in manufacturing, energy, and critical infrastructure sectors that rely on Mitsubishi Electric's GX Works3 software for industrial automation, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk. Unauthorized disclosure of program and project files can lead to intellectual property theft, exposing proprietary automation logic and operational details to competitors or malicious actors. Furthermore, attackers could execute unauthorized programs, potentially causing operational disruptions, safety incidents, or production downtime. The impact extends beyond confidentiality breaches to integrity and availability concerns, as manipulation of control programs can alter industrial processes or halt them entirely. Given the increasing digitization and network connectivity of industrial control systems in Europe, exploitation of this vulnerability could facilitate targeted attacks on critical infrastructure, supply chains, and manufacturing facilities. The medium severity rating reflects the balance between the ease of exploitation (no authentication required) and the potential for significant operational impact. However, the absence of known exploits in the wild suggests that proactive mitigation can effectively reduce risk before widespread exploitation occurs.

Apply software updates or patches from Mitsubishi Electric as soon as they become available to address the cleartext storage issue. Implement network segmentation to isolate industrial control systems running GX Works3 from general corporate networks and the internet, reducing remote attack vectors. Use strong access controls and monitoring on systems hosting GX Works3 to detect and prevent unauthorized access attempts. Encrypt sensitive project and program files at rest using third-party encryption tools if native software updates are not immediately available. Conduct regular audits of stored data within GX Works3 environments to identify and remediate instances of cleartext sensitive information. Employ intrusion detection and prevention systems (IDPS) tailored for industrial control systems to identify anomalous activities related to unauthorized file access or program execution. Train operational technology (OT) personnel on the risks associated with cleartext storage and the importance of secure handling of sensitive automation data. Develop and test incident response plans specific to industrial control system breaches to minimize downtime and operational impact in case of exploitation.