CVE-2016-4524 in PCM600
Summary
by MITRE
ABB PCM600 before 2.7 improperly stores OPC Server IEC61850 passwords in unspecified temporary circumstances, which allows local users to obtain sensitive information via unknown vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/14/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-4524 affects ABB PCM600 devices running firmware versions prior to 2.7, specifically addressing a critical weakness in how the device handles authentication credentials within its OPC Server IEC61850 implementation. This flaw represents a significant security oversight that exposes sensitive operational data to unauthorized local access. The vulnerability falls under the category of insecure credential storage, where authentication information is not properly protected during temporary processing states, creating a persistent exposure window for malicious actors within the local network environment.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of password storage mechanisms within the device's OPC server component, which operates according to the IEC61850 standard for substation automation systems. When the PCM600 device processes OPC server requests, it temporarily stores authentication credentials in memory or configuration files without adequate protection measures. This creates an attack surface where local users can exploit unknown vectors to extract these stored credentials, potentially gaining unauthorized access to the substation automation environment. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-312 (Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) and CWE-522 (Insufficiently Protected Credentials), both of which address improper handling of authentication data. The attack vector operates through local access points, making it particularly dangerous in industrial control environments where physical access controls may be insufficient.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it compromises the integrity of substation automation systems that rely on secure OPC communications. Local attackers who successfully extract these passwords can potentially manipulate industrial processes, disrupt operations, or escalate privileges within the automation environment. The IEC61850 standard's implementation within the PCM600 device creates a complex attack scenario where compromised credentials could enable unauthorized access to critical substation functions, including protection relaying, measurement, and control operations. This vulnerability directly impacts the confidentiality and integrity of industrial control systems, potentially affecting power grid stability and operational security. The attack surface is particularly concerning in environments where multiple local users have access to the device, as the exposure window for credential extraction could persist across various operational states.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate firmware updates to version 2.7 or later, which address the insecure credential storage mechanisms. Organizations should implement comprehensive access controls and privilege management to limit local user access to critical industrial devices. Network segmentation and monitoring solutions should be deployed to detect unauthorized access attempts and credential extraction activities. The implementation of encrypted credential storage mechanisms and regular security assessments of industrial control systems aligns with NIST SP 800-82 guidelines for industrial control systems security. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify similar credential storage issues across their industrial automation infrastructure, as this vulnerability represents a common pattern in industrial control system implementations. Security teams should also implement continuous monitoring for suspicious local access patterns and establish incident response procedures specifically designed for industrial control system credential compromise scenarios.