CVE-2015-1355 in SIMATIC Step 7
Summary
by MITRE
Siemens SIMATIC STEP 7 (TIA Portal) before 13 SP1 uses a weak password-hash algorithm, which makes it easier for local users to determine cleartext passwords by reading a project file and conducting a brute-force attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/16/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-1355 affects Siemens SIMATIC STEP 7 (TIA Portal) versions prior to 13 SP1, representing a critical weakness in the software's authentication mechanisms that significantly undermines system security. This issue stems from the implementation of a weak password hashing algorithm within the project file storage mechanism, creating an exploitable vector for unauthorized access attempts. The vulnerability specifically impacts the local user authentication process where passwords are stored in a manner that facilitates reverse engineering and password recovery through systematic analysis.
The technical flaw resides in the cryptographic implementation used by the TIA Portal software to store password hashes within project files. This weak algorithm design allows attackers with local access to extract password-related data and subsequently conduct brute-force attacks against the stored credentials. The vulnerability demonstrates poor security practices in password storage, as the hashing mechanism fails to provide adequate protection against offline attacks. According to CWE-310, this represents a weakness in cryptographic implementation where the chosen hashing algorithm lacks sufficient entropy and computational complexity to resist modern attack methodologies. The system's failure to implement proper password hashing standards creates a direct pathway for credential compromise through local file examination.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it enables attackers with local system access to potentially escalate privileges and gain unauthorized control over industrial automation systems. In industrial environments where Siemens SIMATIC STEP 7 is deployed, this vulnerability could lead to significant operational disruptions and security breaches that compromise the integrity of critical manufacturing processes. The weakness allows for systematic password recovery attacks that could result in unauthorized access to sensitive project data, modification of control logic, and potential disruption of industrial operations. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1110.003, which describes the use of password cracking methods to gain access to systems, and demonstrates how weak cryptographic implementations can create persistent security risks in industrial control systems.
Organizations implementing Siemens SIMATIC STEP 7 should immediately apply the vendor-provided patch to address this vulnerability and ensure that all systems are updated to version 13 SP1 or later. The mitigation strategy should include implementing proper access controls and monitoring for unauthorized local access attempts, while also conducting thorough security assessments of industrial control system environments. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing multi-factor authentication mechanisms and regular security audits to identify and remediate similar cryptographic weaknesses in other industrial automation systems. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper cryptographic implementation in industrial environments and serves as a reminder that security must be considered throughout the entire software development lifecycle.