CVE-2014-6617 in FG-100 PB PROFIBUS
Summary
by MITRE
Softing FG-100 PB PROFIBUS firmware version FG-x00-PB_V2.02.0.00 contains a hardcoded password for the root account, which allows remote attackers to obtain administrative access via a TELNET session.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/17/2023
The CVE-2014-6617 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in Softing FG-100 PB PROFIBUS devices that directly compromises the integrity of industrial control systems. This vulnerability stems from a hardcoded password embedded within the firmware version FG-x00-PB_V2.02.0.00, creating an inherent backdoor that persists across device deployments and updates. The flaw specifically affects the root account authentication mechanism, which is fundamental to system administration and security control. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in industrial environments where PROFINET and PROFIBUS protocols are widely deployed for critical infrastructure monitoring and control. The presence of hardcoded credentials violates fundamental security principles and represents a design flaw that undermines the security architecture of these industrial devices.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a static password embedded within the device firmware that cannot be changed or removed through normal administrative procedures. When attackers establish a TELNET session to the device, they can leverage this hardcoded credential to gain root access without requiring any legitimate authentication process. This remote access capability allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands, modify system configurations, and potentially manipulate industrial processes. The vulnerability exists at the application layer and affects the network communication protocols used by the device, specifically targeting the TELNET service implementation. The flaw is classified as a credential hardcoding issue that falls under CWE-259, which addresses the use of hard-coded passwords or keys in security-sensitive contexts. This weakness enables attackers to perform privilege escalation and gain full administrative control over the device, making it a severe concern for industrial security.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it can lead to significant disruptions in industrial operations and potential safety hazards. Attackers with root access can modify device configurations, alter communication parameters, or even disable critical system functions that may affect production processes. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the industrial control system, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate data flows or disrupt communications between field devices and control systems. In environments where these devices are deployed for critical infrastructure such as manufacturing plants, power generation facilities, or water treatment systems, the implications of unauthorized access can be catastrophic. The vulnerability also enables attackers to establish persistent access points within the industrial network, potentially allowing them to move laterally through the network and compromise additional systems. This represents a significant concern for the industrial control systems security community, as it demonstrates how embedded security flaws in industrial devices can create systemic vulnerabilities that affect entire operational environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-6617 should focus on immediate remediation through firmware updates provided by Softing, as well as network-level protections to limit exposure. Organizations should implement network segmentation to isolate these devices from critical business networks, deploy network monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized TELNET access attempts, and establish strict access controls for industrial devices. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure device provisioning and the need for dynamic authentication mechanisms rather than hardcoded credentials. Security professionals should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems specifically designed for industrial environments to monitor for suspicious TELNET activity. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments of their industrial control systems to identify similar hardcoded credential issues in other devices. The incident underscores the necessity of following secure development practices and adhering to industrial security standards such as those defined in the IEC 62443 series, which emphasize the importance of secure authentication mechanisms and proper credential management in industrial automation systems. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of addressing security flaws in industrial control systems before they can be exploited by malicious actors.