CVE-2019-13554 in Mark VIe Controller
Summary
by MITRE
GE Mark VIe Controller has an unsecured Telnet protocol that may allow a user to create an authenticated session using generic default credentials. GE recommends that users disable the Telnet service.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/17/2024
The CVE-2019-13554 vulnerability affects GE Mark VIe Controllers, which are industrial control systems widely deployed in power generation and process automation environments. These controllers represent critical infrastructure components that manage complex industrial processes and require robust security measures to prevent unauthorized access. The vulnerability stems from the presence of an unsecured telnet service that operates with default credentials, creating a significant security risk for organizations relying on these systems for operational technology infrastructure.
This security flaw represents a fundamental misconfiguration issue where the controller's telnet service remains enabled with hardcoded default authentication credentials. The vulnerability allows any remote attacker to establish an authenticated session without requiring additional authentication mechanisms or secure protocols. The default credentials provide a trivial attack vector that can be exploited by threat actors with minimal technical expertise. According to CWE-798, this vulnerability directly relates to the use of hardcoded credentials that should never be present in production environments, while also aligning with ATT&CK technique T1075 which covers legitimate credentials for lateral movement.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides threat actors with a persistent entry point into industrial control systems. Once authenticated, attackers can potentially modify controller configurations, manipulate process parameters, or gain deeper access to connected systems within the industrial network. The implications are particularly severe in power generation environments where such access could lead to service disruption, safety hazards, or even physical damage to critical infrastructure. The vulnerability undermines the security posture of industrial environments by providing an easily exploitable path that bypasses normal authentication procedures.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations that align with cybersecurity frameworks such as NIST SP 800-82 and IEC 62443 standards for industrial control systems. The primary recommendation is to disable the telnet service entirely and replace it with secure alternatives such as SSH protocols that provide encrypted communication and proper authentication mechanisms. Network segmentation should be implemented to isolate critical control systems from general network access, while regular security assessments should verify that default services are disabled and that appropriate access controls are in place. Additionally, organizations should establish robust credential management policies that ensure all default accounts are disabled and that strong authentication mechanisms are implemented for any necessary remote access to industrial control systems.