CVE-2014-5423 in Pyxis SupplyStation
Summary
by MITRE
CareFusion Pyxis SupplyStation 8.1 with hardware test tool before 1.0.16 allows local users to obtain potentially sensitive information by reading a temporary (1) debugging file or (2) developer file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/01/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-5423 affects the CareFusion Pyxis SupplyStation 8.1 medical device system, specifically when utilized with a hardware test tool version prior to 1.0.16. This issue represents a significant security weakness that exposes sensitive data through improper file handling practices within the device's operational environment. The vulnerability stems from the system's failure to adequately secure temporary files that are created during debugging and development processes, creating potential entry points for unauthorized data access.
The technical flaw manifests through the creation and retention of temporary debugging and developer files that contain sensitive information accessible to local users. These files are not properly secured or removed after their intended use, allowing any local user with access to the system to read and extract potentially sensitive data from these temporary storage locations. The vulnerability specifically targets the system's temporary file management protocols, where debugging information and development artifacts are stored in locations that do not enforce proper access controls or data sanitization procedures.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses serious risks to healthcare organizations utilizing the Pyxis SupplyStation system, as it could expose confidential patient data, system configurations, or proprietary development information. Local users with legitimate access to the system could exploit this weakness to gain unauthorized insights into the device's internal operations, potentially enabling more sophisticated attacks or data exfiltration attempts. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure, as the sensitive data obtained could be leveraged to understand system vulnerabilities or assist in developing targeted attacks against the medical device infrastructure.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-200, which addresses "Information Exposure," and represents a classic case of improper temporary file handling that violates fundamental security principles. From an attacker's perspective, this weakness maps to techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the Information Gathering category, specifically targeting the collection of system information through local reconnaissance methods. Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation by updating the hardware test tool to version 1.0.16 or later, while also implementing comprehensive temporary file management policies that ensure proper access controls and automatic cleanup procedures. Additionally, system administrators should conduct thorough audits of temporary file locations and implement monitoring controls to detect unauthorized access attempts to sensitive data repositories. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of secure development practices and proper file handling procedures in medical device environments where data protection and patient privacy are paramount considerations.