CVE-2010-5305 in PLC5
Summary
by MITRE
The potential exists for exposure of the product's password used to restrict unauthorized access to Rockwell PLC5/SLC5/0x/RSLogix 1785-Lx and 1747-L5x controllers. The potential exists for an unauthorized programming and configuration client to gain access to the product and allow changes to the product?s configuration or program. When applicable, upgrade product firmware to a version that includes enhanced security functionality compatible with Rockwell Automation's FactoryTalk Security services.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/27/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-5305 represents a critical security flaw in Rockwell Automation's legacy PLC5/SLC5/0x/RSLogix 1785-Lx and 1747-L5x controllers that exposes fundamental authentication mechanisms. This weakness allows unauthorized programming and configuration clients to bypass standard access controls and gain administrative access to industrial control systems. The flaw specifically affects older generations of Rockwell Automation controllers that were designed without robust modern security protocols, creating persistent entry points for malicious actors who seek to compromise industrial automation environments. The vulnerability falls under CWE-287 which addresses improper authentication issues in industrial control systems, particularly those that fail to implement proper credential validation mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the controllers' reliance on weak password handling mechanisms that do not adequately protect against unauthorized access attempts. When an attacker successfully exploits this flaw, they can gain full administrative privileges to modify configuration settings, upload malicious code, or alter operational parameters of the industrial processes. This represents a significant operational risk as it enables attackers to potentially disrupt production, cause physical damage to equipment, or manipulate industrial processes for malicious purposes. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in industrial environments where these controllers may be directly connected to operational technology networks without proper segmentation or security controls.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-5305 extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass potential business continuity disruptions and safety hazards in industrial environments. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could modify control logic, alter safety parameters, or introduce malicious code that could lead to equipment failure, production downtime, or even physical harm to personnel. The vulnerability particularly affects legacy industrial control systems that may not have received regular security updates or patches, leaving them exposed to exploitation by threat actors who specifically target industrial control systems. This weakness aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and credential access in enterprise environments, though adapted for industrial control system contexts where legacy authentication mechanisms are insufficient.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should prioritize immediate remediation through firmware upgrades that include enhanced security functionality compatible with Rockwell Automation's FactoryTalk Security services. The recommended mitigation strategy involves upgrading to firmware versions that implement stronger authentication mechanisms, including proper password policies, account lockout mechanisms, and secure communication protocols. Additionally, network segmentation should be implemented to isolate these critical control systems from general enterprise networks, and regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other legacy industrial systems. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security measures in industrial environments and demonstrates how legacy systems can create persistent security risks when not properly maintained with modern security protocols.