CVE-2023-30560 in Alaris
Summary
by MITRE • 07/13/2023
The configuration from the PCU can be modified without authentication using physical connection to the PCU.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/05/2023
This vulnerability resides in the physical security controls of a PCU (Power Control Unit) system, representing a critical weakness in the device's access control mechanisms. The flaw allows unauthorized modification of system configuration parameters through direct physical connection, bypassing all network-based authentication protocols. This represents a fundamental failure in the principle of least privilege and demonstrates inadequate physical security measures that should protect critical system components from tampering.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient authentication requirements for physical access points within the PCU architecture. Attackers with physical access can directly connect to the device through exposed interfaces such as serial ports, USB connections, or diagnostic ports without requiring proper credentials or authorization. This creates an attack surface where malicious actors can manipulate system parameters including power thresholds, operational limits, or security configurations. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) and specifically relates to inadequate physical security controls that should prevent unauthorized access to critical system components.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple configuration changes, potentially enabling attackers to compromise the entire power control system. An attacker could modify critical parameters such as maximum power limits, operational thresholds, or security configurations that could lead to system instability, power surges, or complete system failure. This vulnerability particularly affects industrial control systems and power management infrastructure where physical access controls are often assumed to be sufficient. The risk is amplified in environments where physical security is weak or where unauthorized personnel have access to the device locations, potentially leading to cascading failures in power distribution systems.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing robust physical security controls including secured access panels, tamper-evident seals, and restricted physical access to PCU locations. Network segmentation and secure remote access protocols should be implemented to prevent unauthorized physical connections. Device firmware should enforce mandatory authentication for all physical interfaces, and regular security audits should verify that physical access controls remain effective. Organizations should implement the ATT&CK technique T1014 (Rootkit) to detect unauthorized physical access attempts and T1078 (Valid Accounts) to ensure proper access control enforcement. Additionally, implementing secure boot processes and cryptographic verification of configuration changes can prevent unauthorized modifications even when physical access is gained.