CVE-2013-0659 in Cp 1604
Summary
by MITRE
The debugging feature on the Siemens CP 1604 and CP 1616 interface cards with firmware before 2.5.2 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted packet to UDP port 17185.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/01/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-0659 affects Siemens CP 1604 and CP 1616 interface cards, which are industrial communication devices commonly used in programmable logic controllers and automation systems. These devices operate within critical infrastructure environments where security is paramount, yet they often lack robust security measures due to their specialized nature and historical focus on functionality over cybersecurity. The flaw resides in the debugging feature that was inadvertently left enabled in firmware versions prior to 2.5.2, creating an unauthorized access vector that could be exploited by remote attackers. This vulnerability represents a significant concern for industrial control systems as it allows for arbitrary code execution, potentially compromising the integrity and availability of critical automation processes.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a debugging interface exposed on UDP port 17185, which accepts crafted packets designed to trigger code execution within the device's firmware. Attackers can leverage this interface without requiring authentication or physical access, making the attack surface particularly concerning for industrial environments where such devices may be deployed in less secure network segments. The debugging feature was intended for development and maintenance purposes but was not properly disabled in production deployments, creating a persistent security weakness that remains exploitable until firmware updates are applied. This flaw directly aligns with CWE-284, which addresses inadequate access control mechanisms, and demonstrates how debug interfaces can become security risks when improperly configured in production environments.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it could enable attackers to gain complete control over the affected interface cards, potentially disrupting industrial processes, modifying operational parameters, or creating backdoors for future attacks. In environments where these devices control critical manufacturing processes or safety systems, such an attack could result in production downtime, quality control issues, or even physical safety hazards. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries could exploit this vulnerability from outside the operational network perimeter, making traditional network segmentation measures ineffective against this specific threat. Organizations utilizing these devices face the challenge of identifying all affected systems within their industrial control networks and implementing timely firmware updates while minimizing operational disruption to critical processes.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-0659 should prioritize immediate firmware updates to version 2.5.2 or later, which address the debugging interface vulnerability. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to restrict access to UDP port 17185, particularly in environments where such access cannot be immediately removed. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual traffic patterns on the affected port, and regular vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues in other industrial devices within the network. The remediation approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1210, which involves exploitation of remote services, and emphasizes the importance of maintaining up-to-date firmware in industrial environments. Organizations should also consider implementing network access control lists and firewall rules to prevent unauthorized access to industrial communication ports, ensuring that debugging features are disabled or properly secured in production environments.