CVE-2021-28112 in X-Dock
Summary
by MITRE • 05/21/2021
Draeger X-Dock Firmware before 03.00.13 has Active Debug Code on a debug port, leading to remote code execution by an authenticated attacker.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/23/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-28112 affects Draeger X-Dock medical device firmware versions prior to 03.00.13, presenting a critical security flaw that enables remote code execution through an authenticated attacker leveraging active debug code present on a debug port. This issue represents a significant weakness in the device's security architecture and demonstrates poor secure development practices. The presence of active debug code on a production device port indicates inadequate security testing and configuration management during the device's development lifecycle.
The technical flaw stems from the persistence of debug functionality within the firmware that should have been disabled or removed before deployment to production environments. This debug port remains accessible to authenticated attackers who can exploit it to execute arbitrary code on the affected device. The vulnerability allows an attacker with valid credentials to gain unauthorized control over the device's operational capabilities, potentially compromising patient safety and medical data integrity. The debug code typically provides elevated privileges and direct access to system functions that should remain restricted to authorized personnel only.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it creates a persistent backdoor that can be exploited to manipulate medical device operations, potentially leading to life-threatening situations in healthcare environments. Medical devices like the Draeger X-Dock are critical components in patient monitoring and treatment, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous. Attackers could potentially alter device settings, disable safety mechanisms, or even cause device failure, all while maintaining persistent access through the debug port. This scenario directly violates the principles of medical device security and patient safety protocols established by regulatory bodies such as the FDA and IEC 60601 standards.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-489, which describes the presence of debug code in production systems, and represents a clear violation of secure coding practices and security by design principles. From an attack perspective, this flaw maps to the MITRE ATT&CK framework's technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers can execute commands through the debug interface. Organizations should implement immediate remediation measures including firmware updates to version 03.00.13 or later, disable unused debug ports, and conduct comprehensive security assessments of all medical devices in their inventory. Additionally, implementing network segmentation, access controls, and continuous monitoring of device communications can help mitigate the risk of exploitation and ensure compliance with healthcare security standards.