CVE-2023-40708 in SNAP PAC S1
Summary
by MITRE • 08/24/2023
The File Transfer Protocol (FTP) port is open by default in the SNAP PAC S1 Firmware version R10.3b. This could allow an adversary to access some device files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/20/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-40708 represents a critical security weakness in the SNAP PAC S1 firmware version R10.3b where the File Transfer Protocol port remains accessible by default. This configuration exposes the industrial control device to potential unauthorized access and data exfiltration attempts. The SNAP PAC S1 is a programmable automation controller commonly used in industrial environments for controlling and monitoring critical infrastructure operations. When the FTP port is left open without proper authentication mechanisms, it creates an attack surface that adversaries can exploit to gain access to sensitive device files and configuration data.
The technical flaw stems from improper default security configuration within the firmware implementation. The FTP protocol, while useful for legitimate file transfers, should not be enabled with default access in industrial control systems without proper authorization controls. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-668 which describes "Exposure of Resource to Wrong Sphere" where a resource is made available to entities that should not have access. The default open FTP port essentially provides an unauthenticated entry point that violates fundamental security principles of least privilege and defense in depth. An attacker could potentially download firmware images, configuration files, or other sensitive data from the device, which could then be used to develop more sophisticated attacks against the industrial network.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access and could severely compromise industrial control system security. In industrial environments, the SNAP PAC S1 controllers often manage critical processes where unauthorized access could lead to operational disruption, safety hazards, or even physical damage to equipment. The exposure of device files might reveal network configurations, communication protocols, or control logic that adversaries could leverage to conduct more targeted attacks. This vulnerability particularly affects environments following the industrial control system security framework where network segmentation and access controls are paramount for maintaining operational technology security. The potential for lateral movement within industrial networks increases significantly when such default access points exist.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate configuration changes and long-term security hardening measures. Organizations must disable the FTP service or restrict access to specific authorized IP addresses using firewall rules and access control lists. The default credentials should be changed immediately, and network segmentation should be implemented to isolate industrial control systems from general network access. Regular security assessments should be conducted to verify that no other unnecessary services are running on industrial devices. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, where adversaries target exposed services to gain initial access. Additionally, the configuration should align with NIST SP 800-82 guidelines for industrial control systems security, which emphasize the importance of minimizing attack surfaces and implementing proper network access controls. Regular firmware updates should be implemented to ensure that known vulnerabilities are patched and that security configurations are maintained according to industry best practices.