CVE-2021-22280: Improper DLL loading algorithms in B&R Automation Studio versions >=4.0 and <4.12 may allow an authenticated l

Routine

HIGH 7.2UPGRADE

CVE-2021-22280 is a high-severity flaw (CVSS 7.2) affecting automation studio. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.

Improper DLL loading algorithms in B&R Automation Studio versions >=4.0 and <4.12 may allow an authenticated local attacker to execute code in the context of the product.

Why this priority

High severity

A fixed release or distro patch exists.

Risk facts

CVSS score	7.2 (High)
Attack vector	Local
Attack complexity	High
Privileges needed	High
User interaction	Required
EPSS exploit chance	0.2% (top 94%)
CISA exploited list	No
Weakness	CWE-427, CWE-20
Published	2024-05-14
Last modified	2026-06-17

Publisher (CNA): Asea Brown Boveri Ltd. (ABB) · Vendor: br-automation

Last updated 2026-06-17 · Sources: CVE Program, NVD, CISA KEV, EPSS and vendor advisories · How we score

Am I affected?

Timeline

2024-05-14 20:15 UTCPublished CVE record published
2026-06-17 03:36 UTCUpdated Record last modified

br-automation automation studio UPGRADE

Affected: >= 4.0 and < 4.12

Fixed in: 4.12

Safe to downgrade to: a release before 4.0

1. Check installed version

apt-cache policy automation-studio || rpm -q automation-studio || automation-studio --version

2. UPGRADE to 4.12 (Debian / Ubuntu)

sudo apt update && sudo apt install --only-upgrade automation-studio

2. UPGRADE (RHEL / Amazon Linux / Fedora)

sudo dnf upgrade automation-studio

Note

Distros often backport fixes without changing the version number. Confirm with the distro advisory or changelog.

3. If no update is available yet, DOWNGRADE to a release before 4.0 (Debian / Ubuntu)

apt-cache madison automation-studio sudo apt install automation-studio=<VERSION_BEFORE_4.0> sudo apt-mark hold automation-studio

3. If no update is available yet, DOWNGRADE (RHEL / Amazon Linux / Fedora)

dnf --showduplicates list automation-studio sudo dnf downgrade automation-studio-<VERSION_BEFORE_4.0> sudo dnf versionlock add automation-studio

Downgrade risk

Downgrading can break dependent software and may reopen older bugs. Read the distro advisory first and test on a non-production host.

After downgrade

Restart the service, and keep the package held until a fixed release ships.

Verify at the official source NVD · CVE Program · Report a problem with this page
Scores and fixes here are computed automatically from those and other public sources. Confirm with the vendor advisory before changing production systems.

Quick answers

How do I fix CVE-2021-22280?

automation studio: upgrade to 4.12. Exact commands for each OS are on this page.

Is CVE-2021-22280 being exploited?

CVE-2021-22280 is not on the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities list at the time of the last update. Check again, as this can change.

What does CVE-2021-22280 affect?

CVE-2021-22280 affects automation studio. Severity is high (CVSS 7.2). Improper DLL loading algorithms in B&R Automation Studio versions >=4.0 and <4.12 may allow an authenticated local attacker to execute code in the context of the product.

How urgent is CVE-2021-22280?

Priority 27/100. High severity

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References

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