CVE-2018-4855 in TC100
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability has been identified in SICLOCK TC100 (All versions) and SICLOCK TC400 (All versions). Unencrypted storage of passwords in the client configuration files and during network transmission could allow an attacker in a privileged position to obtain access passwords.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/03/2023
The vulnerability described in CVE-2018-4855 represents a critical security flaw affecting SICLOCK TC100 and TC400 time synchronization devices from Siemens. These industrial time clock systems are commonly deployed in critical infrastructure environments where precise timekeeping is essential for operational integrity. The vulnerability stems from improper handling of authentication credentials throughout the system's lifecycle, creating multiple attack vectors that could compromise the entire time synchronization infrastructure. This weakness directly impacts the confidentiality and integrity of authentication mechanisms within industrial control systems, making it particularly concerning for organizations relying on these devices for mission-critical operations.
The technical flaw manifests through two primary vectors of credential exposure. First, passwords are stored in cleartext within client configuration files, creating a persistent vulnerability that allows attackers with access to system files to immediately obtain administrative credentials. Second, the network transmission of passwords lacks encryption, enabling man-in-the-middle attackers to capture authentication information during communication between devices and management systems. This dual exposure creates a comprehensive attack surface where an adversary only needs to gain network access or file system privileges to compromise the entire authentication framework. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-312 (Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) and CWE-316 (Cleartext Transmission of Sensitive Information) classifications, representing fundamental failures in secure credential handling practices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it fundamentally undermines the security posture of industrial time synchronization systems. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain full administrative control over time clock devices, potentially disrupting critical time-sensitive operations or using the compromised systems as entry points for broader network infiltration. In industrial environments, this could lead to cascading failures where precise timing is essential for process control, data logging, or security monitoring systems. The vulnerability's impact is particularly severe in environments where these devices are integrated into larger industrial control systems, as it creates a potential attack vector for lateral movement within the operational technology infrastructure. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 (Valid Accounts) and T1566 (Phishing for Information) where compromised credentials can be leveraged for further system compromise.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including mandatory encryption of all password storage mechanisms and network communications involving these devices. Configuration management procedures must be updated to ensure that no cleartext passwords are stored in any system files, with proper key management solutions implemented for credential storage. Network segmentation and monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual communication patterns that might indicate credential interception attempts. Device firmware updates should be applied immediately to address the underlying implementation flaws, while administrative procedures should be reviewed to ensure proper credential rotation and access control policies are enforced. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of secure credential management in industrial control systems and underscores the need for comprehensive security assessments of operational technology infrastructure to prevent similar exposure scenarios.