Command Injection in Open PLC Webserver v3 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via the "Hardware Layer Code Box" component on the "/hardware" page of the application. With a CVSS score of 8.8, this vulnerability is classified as high severity and poses a serious threat to affected systems.
The risk to organizations includes unauthorized execution of code, which can lead to further exploitation of the network. As this is a network-exploitable vulnerability with low attack complexity, it is critical for organizations to address it promptly.
As of now, no public exploit has been confirmed, but the presence of multiple proof-of-concept repositories on GitHub indicates that the potential for exploitation exists. Organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
Given the high EPS score of 0.849, which places this vulnerability in the 99.4th percentile, the urgency for remediation cannot be overstated. Organizations are urged to take immediate action to mitigate the risk.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability allows remote code execution due to improper validation of user input in the "Hardware Layer Code Box" component. This command injection vulnerability is classified under CWE-94.
The CVSS score of 8.8 indicates a high level of severity, reflecting the potential impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, all rated as high. The vulnerability affects the Open PLC Webserver v3 firmware, which is widely used in various applications.
This vulnerability was published on August 3, 2021, and its status has been modified as new information has emerged. Organizations using this software must remain vigilant and apply necessary patches.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the failure to properly sanitize input received from users on the web interface. Attackers exploit this flaw by injecting malicious commands that the server inadvertently executes.
The attack vector is network-based, requiring no physical access to the system. The attack complexity is categorized as low, indicating that an attacker can exploit this vulnerability without sophisticated techniques. Privileges required are low, meaning an attacker does not need elevated access to exploit this vulnerability.
User interaction is not required for the exploitation of this vulnerability, which increases its risk potential. The impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability are rated as high, signifying severe consequences for affected organizations.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations that deploy Open PLC Webserver v3 face significant risks due to this vulnerability. The potential for remote code execution can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive systems, data breaches, and potential system outages.
The blast radius for this vulnerability can be extensive, as it may allow attackers to pivot to other connected systems within the network. The urgency of remediation is underscored by the high CVSS score and the high EPS score, indicating that exploitation is likely.
Organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle to mitigate risks associated with potential exploitation.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The vulnerability affects Open PLC Webserver v3 firmware. Organizations using this version should take immediate action to remediate.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations must apply the latest patches for Open PLC Webserver v3 to mitigate this vulnerability. If patches are unavailable, consider implementing network segmentation to restrict access to affected systems.
Additionally, organizations should review their configurations and ensure that security best practices are followed to minimize exposure to similar vulnerabilities.
For further assistance, organizations may wish to engage in penetration testing to identify and remediate vulnerabilities.
Detection Guidance
To detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability, organizations should monitor logs for unusual command executions or unexpected changes in system behavior.
Additionally, organizations can implement network signatures to identify unauthorized access attempts targeting the Open PLC Webserver.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
This vulnerability is a reminder of the importance of secure coding practices and input validation. The trend of command injection vulnerabilities continues to pose significant risks across various technologies.
Organizations should regularly review their security posture and consider implementing ongoing security assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities.
For further reading on security strategies, organizations may find value in exploring our security testing best practices and our guide on penetration testing methodology to enhance their security frameworks.
Engaging with our vulnerability management program can further assist in developing a robust defense strategy.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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