CVE-2023-2060 in MELSEC iQ-R
Summary
by MITRE • 06/02/2023
Weak Password Requirements vulnerability in FTP function on Mitsubishi Electric Corporation MELSEC iQ-R Series EtherNet/IP module RJ71EIP91 and MELSEC iQ-F Series EtherNet/IP module FX5-ENET/IP allows a remote unauthenticated attacker to access to the module via FTP by dictionary attack or password sniffing.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/02/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-2060 represents a critical weakness in the authentication mechanisms of Mitsubishi Electric Corporation's industrial automation equipment, specifically affecting the MELSEC iQ-R Series EtherNet/IP module RJ71EIP91 and MELSEC iQ-F Series EtherNet/IP module FX5-ENET/IP. This weakness stems from insufficient password requirements within the FTP service implementation, creating a significant security risk that can be exploited by remote attackers without prior authentication credentials. The vulnerability directly impacts the security posture of industrial control systems by providing an attack vector that allows unauthorized access to critical industrial equipment through simple brute force or credential sniffing techniques.
The technical flaw manifests in the implementation of password policies within the FTP service of these industrial modules, where the system fails to enforce strong authentication requirements such as minimum password length, complexity requirements, or account lockout mechanisms. This weakness falls under the CWE-521 Weak Password Requirements category, which specifically addresses insufficient password strength policies that make systems vulnerable to dictionary attacks and brute force exploitation. The vulnerability allows attackers to systematically guess or sniff valid credentials through automated tools, leveraging the weak password policies to gain unauthorized access to the industrial modules. The design flaw enables attackers to bypass normal authentication procedures by exploiting the predictable or easily guessable nature of the default or user-configured passwords.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it can potentially compromise the integrity and availability of industrial control systems that rely on these modules for network communication and data exchange. Remote unauthenticated access to these EtherNet/IP modules could enable attackers to manipulate industrial processes, access sensitive operational data, or potentially disrupt critical manufacturing operations. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited by attackers with minimal technical expertise, as the attack methods required are straightforward dictionary attacks or password sniffing techniques that do not require advanced privileges or specialized tools. This threat is particularly concerning in industrial environments where operational technology systems are increasingly connected to corporate networks, creating potential lateral movement opportunities for attackers.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-2060 should focus on implementing strong password policies and network segmentation to limit exposure of these industrial modules. Organizations should enforce minimum password length requirements of at least 12 characters with mixed character sets, implement account lockout mechanisms after failed authentication attempts, and disable unnecessary FTP services where possible. The implementation of network access controls such as firewalls and access control lists can help restrict access to these modules to only authorized personnel and systems. Additionally, regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in industrial control systems. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1110 Credential Access techniques, specifically targeting weak authentication mechanisms, and organizations should consider implementing network monitoring solutions to detect and alert on suspicious FTP access patterns. Regular firmware updates from Mitsubishi Electric Corporation should be applied to address the underlying implementation flaws, while network administrators should consider disabling FTP services entirely if they are not essential for operational requirements, thereby reducing the attack surface of industrial control systems.