CVE-2023-4518 in Relion670
Summary
by MITRE • 12/01/2023
A vulnerability exists in the input validation of the GOOSE messages where out of range values received and processed by the IED caused a reboot of the device. In order for an attacker to exploit the vulnerability, goose receiving blocks need to be configured.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/23/2024
This vulnerability resides within the input validation mechanisms of GOOSE message processing within Intelligent Electronic Devices commonly found in industrial control systems and power grid infrastructure. The flaw manifests when an IED receives and processes GOOSE messages containing out-of-range parameter values that exceed the device's acceptable thresholds. This condition triggers an unexpected system reboot, effectively creating a denial-of-service scenario that can disrupt critical infrastructure operations. The vulnerability specifically affects devices that implement IEC 61850 standard protocols for communication between intelligent electronic devices in substation automation systems. The issue stems from inadequate boundary checking and input sanitization within the GOOSE message handling components, which fail to properly validate parameter ranges before processing. According to CWE classification, this vulnerability maps to CWE-129 Input Validation and Normalization, as it involves improper validation of input data ranges without adequate bounds checking mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption, as it can compromise the reliability and availability of critical power grid operations. When an IED reboots due to malformed GOOSE messages, it can cause cascading failures throughout the substation automation system, potentially leading to loss of monitoring capabilities, control signal disruptions, or even protective relay malfunctions. The attack vector requires an attacker to have the ability to configure or influence GOOSE receiving blocks within the target system, which typically involves access to the substation communication network or privileged administrative interfaces. This requirement means the vulnerability is more likely to be exploited by insiders or attackers who have already gained network access to the industrial control environment. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499.004 for Network Denial of Service and T1566.001 for Phishing, as it represents a potential vector for service disruption attacks targeting industrial control systems.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing robust input validation mechanisms within the IED firmware, including comprehensive range checking for all GOOSE message parameters before processing. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit unauthorized configuration of GOOSE receiving blocks, while monitoring systems should be deployed to detect unusual reboot patterns or anomalous GOOSE message traffic. Device vendors should implement proper error handling that prevents system crashes or reboots when encountering malformed inputs, instead logging the error and maintaining system operation. The implementation of secure communication protocols with message authentication and integrity checking can also help prevent unauthorized modification of GOOSE messages. Additionally, regular security assessments of industrial control systems should include testing for similar input validation vulnerabilities, and system administrators should maintain detailed logs of all GOOSE message processing activities to enable rapid detection and response to potential exploitation attempts.