CVE-2014-2247 in SIMATIC S7-1500 Cpu
Summary
by MITRE
The integrated web server on Siemens SIMATIC S7-1500 CPU PLC devices with firmware before 1.5.0 allows remote attackers to inject headers via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/08/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-2247 affects Siemens SIMATIC S7-1500 CPU programmable logic controllers where the integrated web server is susceptible to header injection attacks. This flaw exists in firmware versions prior to 1.5.0 and represents a significant security weakness in industrial control systems that can be exploited remotely by attackers without requiring physical access or specialized credentials. The affected devices operate within critical infrastructure environments where operational technology security is paramount, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for industrial cybersecurity.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the web server component of the SIMATIC S7-1500 CPU devices. Attackers can manipulate HTTP headers through unspecified vectors, potentially allowing them to inject malicious content into web server responses. This header injection capability could enable various malicious activities including session hijacking, cross-site scripting attacks, or manipulation of web server behavior. The vulnerability falls under CWE-1107, which specifically addresses improper validation of HTTP headers, and represents a classic example of insecure web server configuration in industrial environments. The attack surface is particularly dangerous because these devices often operate in isolated networks but may still be accessible through various network interfaces or management protocols.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple web server compromise, as it can potentially enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to critical industrial control systems. In industrial settings, the S7-1500 series PLCs are used for process control and automation where security breaches could lead to production disruptions, safety hazards, or even physical damage to equipment. The remote exploitability means that attackers can target these devices from external networks, potentially from anywhere in the world, making traditional network perimeter security insufficient to prevent exploitation. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications, and represents a common vector for initial access in industrial environments where operational technology systems may not receive the same security attention as traditional information technology systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-2247 should prioritize immediate firmware updates to version 1.5.0 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the header injection vulnerability. Organizations should implement network segmentation to isolate these industrial control systems from general network access, limiting the attack surface for potential exploitation. Additional security measures include deploying web application firewalls specifically configured to detect and block header injection attempts, implementing strict access controls for web server interfaces, and conducting regular security assessments of industrial control system components. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous HTTP header patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date firmware in industrial environments and highlights the need for comprehensive security policies that address both IT and OT systems within critical infrastructure organizations.