An attacker with access to the project file could use the exposed credentials to impersonate users, escalate privileges, or gain unauthorized access to systems and services. The absence of robust encryption or secure handling mechanisms increases the likelihood of this type of exploitation, leaving sensitive information more vulnerable.
https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/ics-advisories/icsa-26-022-02
https://github.com/cisagov/CSAF/blob/develop/csaf_files/OT/white/2026/icsa-26-022-02.json