CVE-2017-14463 in MicroLogix 1400
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable access control vulnerability exists in the data, program, and function file permissions functionality of Allen Bradley Micrologix 1400 Series B FRN 21.2 and before. A specially crafted packet can cause a read or write operation resulting in disclosure of sensitive information, modification of settings, or modification of ladder logic. An attacker can send unauthenticated packets to trigger this vulnerability. Required Keyswitch State: REMOTE or PROG Associated Fault Code: 0012 Fault Type: Non-User Description: A fault state can be triggered by overwriting the ladder logic data file (type 0x22 number 0x02) with null values.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/27/2023
The CVE-2017-14463 vulnerability represents a critical access control flaw in Allen Bradley Micrologix 1400 Series B controllers running firmware version 21.2 or earlier. This vulnerability resides within the data, program, and function file permissions functionality, fundamentally compromising the security model of industrial control systems. The flaw allows unauthorized remote access to critical system components through unauthenticated network packets, creating a significant risk for industrial environments where operational technology security is paramount. The vulnerability's exploitation potential extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass full system modification capabilities, including the ability to alter ladder logic programs that control industrial processes.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate permission checking mechanisms within the controller's communication protocols. When a specially crafted packet is transmitted to the device, it can trigger unauthorized read or write operations against sensitive system files. The specific attack vector involves overwriting the ladder logic data file (type 0x22 number 0x02) with null values, which directly impacts the controller's operational integrity. This vulnerability specifically requires the keyswitch to be in either REMOTE or PROG state, indicating that the flaw can be exploited even when operators believe the system is in a secure configuration. The fault code 0012 and associated fault type of Non-User further demonstrate that this is an internal system failure rather than a user-induced error, making it particularly dangerous as it can occur without operator awareness.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-14463 extends far beyond traditional cybersecurity concerns, as it directly threatens industrial process control and safety systems. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain access to sensitive information contained within the controller's memory, potentially exposing proprietary process control logic and operational parameters. The ability to modify settings and ladder logic creates opportunities for attackers to disrupt operations, cause production failures, or even create dangerous conditions in industrial environments. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) and represents a significant deviation from the principle of least privilege that should govern industrial control systems. The attack can be executed remotely without authentication, making it particularly dangerous for networks that lack proper segmentation or network access controls.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including network segmentation to isolate affected controllers from general network access, deployment of network access control lists to restrict communication to authorized sources only, and implementation of network monitoring to detect anomalous packet patterns. The firmware update to version 21.3 or later represents the primary remediation strategy, as it addresses the underlying permission checking mechanisms that allow unauthorized access. Additionally, security controls should include regular vulnerability assessments of industrial control systems, implementation of secure network configurations, and establishment of operational procedures that require physical access verification before any configuration changes. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining current firmware versions in industrial environments and highlights the need for robust security practices in operational technology environments that align with NIST SP 800-82 guidelines for industrial control systems security. The attack surface for such vulnerabilities is particularly concerning given that many industrial environments lack the sophisticated security monitoring and incident response capabilities found in traditional IT environments, making early detection and response more challenging.