CVE-2025-13911 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-250 (Execution with Unnecessary Privileges) affecting Inductive Automation's Ignition SCADA software versions 8.1.x and 8.3.x. The core issue stems from the Ignition Gateway process running with SYSTEM-level permissions on Windows, combined with insufficient security controls restricting which Python libraries can be imported and executed within the embedded scripting environment. Authenticated administrators can upload malicious project files containing Python scripts that leverage bind shell capabilities or alternative code execution techniques. These scripts execute with the same elevated privileges as the Ignition service account, effectively granting attackers SYSTEM-level access to the host machine. The vulnerability requires an authenticated user with administrative privileges within Ignition, no additional user interaction is needed once the malicious project is uploaded. The lack of proper sandboxing or library import restrictions in the Python scripting environment enables attackers to execute arbitrary code with high privileges. Although no public exploits have been reported, the potential for full system compromise in industrial control environments is significant. The vulnerability was published on December 18, 2025, with a CVSS v3.1 score of 6.4, reflecting medium severity due to the requirement for high privileges and network attack vector. The vulnerability highlights the risk of excessive permissions and inadequate scripting environment controls in critical infrastructure software.

For European organizations, especially those operating in industrial automation, manufacturing, energy, and critical infrastructure sectors, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk. Exploitation could lead to full system compromise of the Ignition Gateway host, enabling attackers to manipulate automation processes, disrupt operations, exfiltrate sensitive data, or deploy ransomware. The SYSTEM-level privileges allow attackers to bypass many security controls, potentially affecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of industrial control systems. Given Ignition's widespread use in SCADA environments across Europe, successful exploitation could cause operational downtime, safety hazards, and significant financial and reputational damage. The requirement for authenticated administrator access somewhat limits the attack surface but insider threats or compromised credentials could facilitate exploitation. The vulnerability also raises concerns about supply chain security and the trustworthiness of uploaded project files. European organizations must consider the potential cascading effects on interconnected industrial networks and the broader impact on national critical infrastructure resilience.

1. Restrict Ignition administrator access strictly to trusted personnel and enforce strong multi-factor authentication to reduce the risk of credential compromise. 2. Implement rigorous validation and scanning of all uploaded project files to detect and block malicious Python scripts or unusual library imports. 3. Run the Ignition Gateway service under a least-privilege account rather than SYSTEM-level permissions where feasible, to limit the impact of code execution. 4. Employ application whitelisting and endpoint detection solutions on hosts running Ignition to monitor and block unauthorized script execution or network connections initiated by the Ignition process. 5. Regularly audit and review Python scripting usage within Ignition projects to identify and remove unnecessary or potentially risky scripts. 6. Keep Ignition software up to date and monitor vendor advisories for patches or security enhancements addressing this vulnerability. 7. Segment industrial networks to isolate SCADA systems from broader enterprise networks, reducing lateral movement opportunities. 8. Conduct security awareness training for administrators on the risks of uploading untrusted project files and the importance of secure scripting practices.