CVE-2016-5848 in SICAM PAS
Summary
by MITRE
Siemens SICAM PAS before 8.07 does not properly restrict password data in the database, which makes it easier for local users to calculate passwords by leveraging unspecified database privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/26/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-5848 affects Siemens SICAM PAS versions prior to 8.07, representing a critical weakness in the database security architecture of this industrial automation software. This flaw resides in the password storage mechanism where the system fails to adequately restrict or obfuscate password data within its database components, creating an exploitable condition that significantly weakens the overall security posture of the affected systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient database privilege controls and inadequate password data protection measures within the Siemens SICAM PAS database schema. Local users with access to the database can exploit unspecified database privileges to extract password information, potentially allowing them to perform password guessing or brute force attacks against the system. This weakness directly violates fundamental security principles of data protection and access control, as password information should remain protected through proper encryption, hashing, and privilege restriction mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential exposure, as it creates opportunities for lateral movement and persistent access within industrial control systems. Attackers who successfully exploit this weakness can gain unauthorized access to critical industrial processes, potentially leading to operational disruptions, data compromise, or even physical system damage. The vulnerability particularly affects environments where Siemens SICAM PAS is deployed for industrial process automation, making it a significant concern for critical infrastructure operators who rely on these systems for operational continuity.
From a cybersecurity framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-522, which addresses insufficiently protected credentials, and relates to ATT&CK technique T1110.003 for password guessing and brute force attacks. The flaw demonstrates poor implementation of the principle of least privilege and inadequate data protection controls, which are fundamental requirements in industrial cybersecurity standards such as IEC 62443 and NIST SP 800-82. Organizations should immediately implement the vendor-provided patches for Siemens SICAM PAS 8.07 or later versions, while also conducting comprehensive assessments of database access controls and privilege management across all industrial control system environments.
The remediation approach must include not only applying the specific patch for the identified vulnerability but also implementing broader database security measures such as proper access logging, privilege auditing, and enhanced encryption of sensitive data elements. Security teams should establish monitoring protocols to detect unauthorized database access attempts and implement multi-factor authentication mechanisms where possible. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper database security implementation in industrial environments, where weak authentication mechanisms can lead to severe operational and safety consequences.