CVE-2016-2279 in Allen-Bradley CompactLogix 1769-L
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the web server in Rockwell Automation Allen-Bradley CompactLogix 1769-L* before 28.011+ allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/03/2026
The CVE-2016-2279 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within the web server component of Rockwell Automation Allen-Bradley CompactLogix 1769-L* industrial control devices. This vulnerability exists in firmware versions prior to 28.011+ and exposes these industrial automation systems to remote exploitation by malicious actors who can inject arbitrary web scripts or HTML content into the affected web interfaces. The CompactLogix series devices are widely deployed in industrial environments for programmable logic control and process automation, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for operational technology infrastructure.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output encoding within the web server implementation of these industrial controllers. Attackers can exploit unspecified vectors to inject malicious scripts that execute in the context of the victim's browser when they interact with the compromised web interface. This allows for session hijacking, data theft, and potential lateral movement within industrial networks. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages the web server's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before rendering it in web responses, creating an environment where malicious code can be executed in the browser of legitimate users.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond traditional cybersecurity concerns into critical infrastructure safety and reliability domains. Industrial control systems running vulnerable CompactLogix devices face potential compromise of their operational integrity, as attackers could manipulate web-based interfaces to alter control parameters or gain unauthorized access to system functions. This poses significant risks to manufacturing processes, production safety, and overall industrial network security posture. The vulnerability affects not only the immediate device but also potentially the broader industrial network ecosystem where these controllers operate, as successful exploitation could lead to cascading effects throughout connected systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-2279 should prioritize immediate firmware updates to version 28.011+ or later, as provided by Rockwell Automation. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of these devices to untrusted networks, while regular security assessments should monitor for additional vulnerabilities in industrial control systems. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which describes cross-site scripting flaws in web applications, and may be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1566 for initial access through web application attacks. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls and conduct regular security training for industrial control system operators to recognize potential exploitation attempts and maintain robust incident response procedures for industrial cybersecurity incidents.