CVE-2022-29830 is a vulnerability identified in Mitsubishi Electric Corporation's GX Works3 software, specifically affecting versions from 1.000A to 1.095Z, as well as related Motion Control Setting software versions from 1.000A onward. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-321, which pertains to the use of hard-coded cryptographic keys. In this case, the software employs a cryptographic key embedded directly in the code rather than generating or securely managing keys dynamically. This design flaw allows a remote, unauthenticated attacker to exploit the hard-coded key to either disclose or tamper with sensitive information, particularly project files managed by the GX Works3 environment. GX Works3 is a programming and configuration tool used for Mitsubishi Electric's programmable logic controllers (PLCs), which are critical components in industrial control systems (ICS) and automation environments. The exploitation does not require authentication or user interaction, increasing the attack surface. By leveraging the hard-coded key, attackers can decrypt or manipulate project files, potentially leading to unauthorized access to intellectual property, modification of control logic, or disruption of industrial processes. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk due to the sensitive nature of the data and the critical role of the affected software in industrial automation. The lack of available patches at the time of reporting further exacerbates the risk, necessitating immediate mitigation efforts by affected organizations.

For European organizations, particularly those operating in manufacturing, energy, utilities, and critical infrastructure sectors, this vulnerability presents a tangible risk. GX Works3 is widely used in industrial automation, and unauthorized access or tampering with project files can lead to operational disruptions, safety hazards, and intellectual property theft. The confidentiality of proprietary control logic and project configurations is compromised, potentially enabling industrial espionage. Integrity is at risk as attackers could alter control programs, causing malfunctions or unsafe operations. Availability could be indirectly affected if tampering leads to system failures or necessitates shutdowns for remediation. Given the increasing digitization and interconnectivity of industrial environments in Europe, exploitation of this vulnerability could have cascading effects on supply chains and critical services. The medium severity rating reflects the balance between the potential impact and the complexity of exploitation; however, the lack of authentication requirement and remote exploitability increase the threat level in operational contexts.

1. Immediate implementation of network segmentation and strict access controls to isolate GX Works3 environments from untrusted networks, minimizing exposure to remote attackers. 2. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint protection solutions to detect and prevent unauthorized execution or modification of GX Works3-related files. 3. Monitor network traffic for unusual access patterns or attempts to interact with GX Works3 services, using industrial intrusion detection systems tailored for ICS environments. 4. Conduct thorough audits of project files and control logic to identify unauthorized changes or anomalies. 5. Engage with Mitsubishi Electric for updates or patches addressing this vulnerability and plan for timely deployment once available. 6. Where feasible, restrict the use of vulnerable versions by upgrading to newer, unaffected software releases or applying vendor-recommended workarounds. 7. Train operational technology (OT) personnel on the risks associated with hard-coded keys and the importance of secure key management practices. 8. Implement robust backup and recovery procedures for project files to enable rapid restoration in case of tampering or data loss.