CVE-2026-22619 Overview
Eaton Intelligent Power Protector (IPP) is affected by an insecure library loading vulnerability (CWE-427: Uncontrolled Search Path Element) in its executable. This security flaw could allow an attacker with local access to the software package to achieve arbitrary code execution by placing a malicious DLL in a location where the application searches for libraries.
Critical Impact
Successful exploitation enables arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the IPP application, potentially allowing attackers to compromise UPS management systems and critical power infrastructure.
Affected Products
- Eaton Intelligent Power Protector (IPP) - versions prior to the latest patched release
Discovery Timeline
- April 16, 2026 - CVE-2026-22619 published to NVD
- April 16, 2026 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2026-22619
Vulnerability Analysis
This vulnerability stems from CWE-427 (Uncontrolled Search Path Element), a class of weaknesses where an application loads libraries or executables from directories that may be under attacker control. In the context of Eaton IPP, the executable does not properly validate or restrict the search path when loading dynamic libraries, creating an opportunity for DLL hijacking attacks.
The Eaton Intelligent Power Protector software is designed to monitor and manage uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) in enterprise environments. Given its role in managing critical power infrastructure, successful exploitation could have significant implications for business continuity and system availability.
Root Cause
The root cause of CVE-2026-22619 is improper implementation of library loading mechanisms within the Eaton IPP executable. The application fails to use secure library loading practices, such as specifying absolute paths for required DLLs or using SetDllDirectory() to restrict the search path. This allows the Windows DLL search order to include directories that may be writable by lower-privileged users.
Attack Vector
The attack requires local access to the system where Eaton IPP is installed. An attacker would need to:
- Identify which DLLs the IPP application attempts to load
- Determine a writable location in the DLL search path (such as the application directory or current working directory)
- Place a malicious DLL with the expected name in that location
- Wait for or trigger the IPP application to execute, causing it to load the malicious library
Upon loading the attacker-controlled DLL, arbitrary code executes within the context of the IPP process, potentially with elevated privileges depending on how the software is configured to run.
The vulnerability requires local access and high complexity to exploit, but successful exploitation can result in complete compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability with impact extending beyond the vulnerable component.
Detection Methods for CVE-2026-22619
Indicators of Compromise
- Unexpected DLL files present in the Eaton IPP installation directory or related paths
- Unusual process behavior from IPP executables, such as unexpected network connections or child processes
- Anomalous file creation events in directories within the DLL search path
- Process integrity violations detected by endpoint protection solutions
Detection Strategies
- Monitor for DLL loading events from non-standard or unexpected paths using Sysmon Event ID 7 (Image loaded)
- Implement application whitelisting to detect unauthorized libraries being loaded by IPP executables
- Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions like SentinelOne to identify suspicious DLL sideloading attempts
- Audit file system changes in the IPP installation directory and related paths
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enable enhanced logging for DLL load events on systems running Eaton IPP
- Configure SIEM rules to alert on process execution anomalies from power management software
- Implement file integrity monitoring (FIM) on the IPP installation directory
- Review Windows Event Logs for Application Error events that may indicate failed exploitation attempts
How to Mitigate CVE-2026-22619
Immediate Actions Required
- Update Eaton Intelligent Power Protector to the latest version available on the Eaton download center
- Restrict write permissions on the IPP installation directory and related paths to administrators only
- Audit existing IPP installations for any unauthorized DLL files
- Consider implementing application control policies to prevent unauthorized DLL loading
Patch Information
Eaton has released a security update that addresses this vulnerability. The fix is available in the latest version of Eaton IPP software through the Eaton download center. Organizations should prioritize updating affected installations, particularly those managing critical power infrastructure.
For detailed patch information and download links, refer to the Eaton Security Bulletin ETN-VA-2025-1025.
Workarounds
- Implement strict file system permissions on the IPP installation directory, removing write access for non-administrative users
- Use application whitelisting solutions to prevent execution of unauthorized DLLs
- Run the IPP application with minimal required privileges using the principle of least privilege
- Deploy SentinelOne endpoint protection to detect and block DLL hijacking attempts in real-time
- Consider network segmentation to isolate systems running power management software
# Configuration example - Restrict directory permissions on Windows
# Run in elevated PowerShell to lock down the IPP installation directory
icacls "C:\Program Files\Eaton\IPP" /inheritance:r
icacls "C:\Program Files\Eaton\IPP" /grant:r "SYSTEM:(OI)(CI)F"
icacls "C:\Program Files\Eaton\IPP" /grant:r "Administrators:(OI)(CI)F"
icacls "C:\Program Files\Eaton\IPP" /grant:r "Users:(OI)(CI)RX"
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
