CVE-2015-4174 in Climatix BACnet
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the integrated web server on the Siemens Climatix BACnet/IP communication module with firmware before 10.34 allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via a crafted URL.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/22/2022
The CVE-2015-4174 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within the integrated web server of Siemens Climatix BACnet/IP communication modules. This vulnerability specifically affects firmware versions prior to 10.34 and exposes devices to remote code execution through malicious web script injection. The affected communication module serves as a bridge between building automation systems and network infrastructure, making it a prime target for cyber adversaries seeking to compromise industrial control environments.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the web server component of the Climatix module. When processing crafted URLs containing malicious script payloads, the system fails to properly sanitize user-supplied data before rendering it in web responses. This deficiency creates an exploitable condition where remote attackers can inject arbitrary HTML and JavaScript code that executes in the context of authenticated users' browsers. The vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications, where insufficient validation of user inputs leads to unauthorized script execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond typical web application security concerns into industrial control system domains. Attackers exploiting this weakness could potentially gain unauthorized access to building automation systems, manipulate environmental controls, or establish persistent access points within network infrastructure. The Climatix BACnet/IP module operates in critical environments such as data centers, manufacturing facilities, and commercial buildings where unauthorized access could result in operational disruptions, safety hazards, or data compromise. This vulnerability particularly affects the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 which involves command and scripting interpreter usage, as attackers could leverage the XSS payload to execute malicious commands through the compromised web interface.
Organizations utilizing Siemens Climatix BACnet/IP modules must prioritize immediate firmware updates to address this vulnerability. The recommended mitigation involves upgrading to firmware version 10.34 or later, which includes proper input sanitization mechanisms and enhanced web server security controls. Network segmentation strategies should be implemented to isolate these devices from general network traffic, reducing the attack surface for potential exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should include detection of anomalous URL patterns and unusual web server access logs that may indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and content security policies can provide additional defense-in-depth measures against similar vulnerabilities in industrial environments.