CVE-2021-35530 in CoreTec 4
Summary
by MITRE • 06/08/2022
A vulnerability in the application authentication and authorization mechanism in Hitachi Energy's TXpert Hub CoreTec 4, that depends on a token validation of the session identifier, allows an unauthorized modified message to be executed in the server enabling an unauthorized actor to change an existing user password, and further gain authorized access into the system via login mechanism. This issue affects: Hitachi Energy TXpert Hub CoreTec 4 version 2.0.0 2.1.0; 2.1.0; 2.1.1; 2.1.2; 2.1.3; 2.2.0; 2.2.1.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/10/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-35530 represents a critical weakness in the authentication and authorization framework of Hitachi Energy's TXpert Hub CoreTec 4 software platform. This flaw resides within the session management mechanism where the system relies on token validation for session identifier verification. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of session tokens, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate authenticated sessions and execute unauthorized operations within the system. The affected versions span from 2.0.0 through 2.2.1, indicating a widespread issue across multiple releases of this industrial control system component. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-306, which addresses missing authentication checks, and specifically relates to improper session management practices that fail to adequately verify the integrity of session tokens.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability enables an attacker to modify existing user passwords and subsequently gain authorized access to the system through legitimate login mechanisms. This represents a severe privilege escalation attack vector where an unauthorized actor can leverage the compromised session token to perform administrative functions. The flaw allows for message manipulation within the server environment, effectively bypassing the normal authorization controls that should prevent unauthorized password changes. The attack chain begins with session token manipulation, followed by password modification, and concludes with authenticated access to the system. This vulnerability directly impacts the CIA triad, specifically compromising both confidentiality and integrity aspects of the system. The issue aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers legitimate credentials, and T1548.001 which addresses abuse of system permissions through session hijacking.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it enables persistent system compromise that could lead to more severe consequences in industrial environments. Attackers could potentially escalate their privileges to administrative levels, modify critical system configurations, or disrupt industrial processes managed by the TXpert Hub CoreTec 4 platform. The affected industrial control system environment makes this vulnerability particularly concerning as it could impact critical infrastructure operations and manufacturing processes. Organizations utilizing this software may face significant security risks including data breaches, process disruption, and potential safety hazards in industrial settings where these systems control critical operations. The vulnerability's persistence through multiple versions indicates a fundamental flaw in the software architecture that requires immediate attention and remediation.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate deployment of vendor-provided security patches and updates to address the session validation weakness. Organizations should implement additional monitoring of authentication events and session management activities to detect potential exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit exposure of the affected systems. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in the broader industrial control system environment. The implementation of multi-factor authentication and enhanced session management practices should be considered as additional protective measures. System administrators should also establish strict change management procedures and maintain detailed audit logs to track all authentication and authorization events within the affected platform. Given the industrial nature of the affected systems, organizations should coordinate with Hitachi Energy to ensure proper remediation and verify the effectiveness of implemented security controls.