CVE-2018-4848 in Scalance X-200 IRT
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability has been identified in SCALANCE X-200 IRT (All versions < V5.4.1), SCALANCE X300 (All versions). The integrated configuration web server of the affected Scalance X Switches could allow Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks if unsuspecting users are tricked into accessing a malicious link. User interaction is required for a successful exploitation. The user must be logged into the web interface in order for the exploitation to succeed.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/27/2023
The CVE-2018-4848 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw in Siemens SCALANCE X series industrial switches that impacts both SCALANCE X-200 IRT and SCALANCE X300 devices. This vulnerability resides within the integrated web configuration server component of these industrial network devices, which are commonly deployed in industrial control systems and manufacturing environments. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the web interface, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary script code that executes in the context of authenticated users' browsers. The vulnerability specifically affects all versions of these switches prior to V5.4.1, making a significant portion of deployed industrial infrastructure potentially susceptible to exploitation.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which describes cross-site scripting flaws where web applications fail to properly validate or encode user-supplied data before including it in dynamically generated web pages. In the context of industrial control systems, this weakness creates a particularly dangerous attack surface since these devices often serve as critical network infrastructure components within operational technology environments. The exploitation requires user interaction in the form of clicking on a malicious link, but the prerequisite that users must be logged into the web interface significantly reduces the attack surface while still maintaining a substantial risk level. This authentication requirement means that attackers would need to either gain initial access through other means or convince legitimate users to click malicious links, typically through social engineering campaigns.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-4848 extends beyond simple data theft or defacement, as it could enable attackers to manipulate network configurations, access sensitive operational data, or potentially disrupt industrial processes. In industrial environments where these switches control critical network communications, such an attack could lead to unauthorized access to control systems, data exfiltration, or even physical security breaches. The vulnerability's presence in SCALANCE switches makes it particularly concerning as these devices are often deployed in environments where network security is paramount and where traditional web-based attack vectors might not typically be expected. The requirement for user interaction and existing authentication reduces the likelihood of automated exploitation but does not eliminate the threat, especially in environments where social engineering attacks are common or where insider threats exist.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-4848 should prioritize immediate firmware updates to versions V5.4.1 or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the XSS vulnerability. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of these devices to untrusted networks, while monitoring systems should be deployed to detect suspicious web traffic patterns. Security awareness training for personnel who interact with these devices is crucial to prevent successful social engineering attacks that could lead to exploitation. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and content security policies can provide additional defense-in-depth measures. Organizations should also consider conducting regular security assessments of their industrial control systems to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the T1059.007 technique for 'Scripting' and T1566.001 for 'Phishing', highlighting the multi-layered approach required for comprehensive protection against such threats in industrial environments.