CVE-2023-47311 in Yamcs
Summary
by MITRE • 11/20/2023
An issue in Yamcs 5.8.6 allows attackers to send aribitrary telelcommands in a Command Stack via Clickjacking.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/22/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-47311 affects Yamcs version 5.8.6, a widely used command and control system for space missions and satellite operations. This security flaw represents a critical clickjacking vulnerability that enables unauthorized actors to inject arbitrary telecommands into the command stack through deceptive user interface interactions. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and inadequate protection mechanisms within the web-based interface of the Yamcs platform, which is designed to manage complex spacecraft operations and command sequences.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the lack of proper clickjacking protection measures in the Yamcs web interface. Attackers can craft malicious web pages that, when loaded in a victim's browser, appear to be legitimate interface elements while actually sending commands to the Yamcs system through hidden iframes or overlay techniques. This allows adversaries to manipulate the command stack without proper authorization, potentially executing unintended telecommands that could compromise spacecraft operations, alter mission parameters, or cause system malfunctions. The vulnerability specifically targets the command stack functionality, which represents the queue of commands awaiting execution in the spacecraft control system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe given the critical nature of space mission operations and the potential for cascading failures. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially disrupt ongoing missions, cause spacecraft malfunctions, or even compromise the safety of orbital operations. The implications extend beyond simple command injection, as the command stack represents a critical pathway for mission-critical operations where unauthorized modifications could lead to mission failure or catastrophic outcomes. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations managing satellite constellations, deep space probes, or any mission-critical systems where Yamcs is deployed for command and control operations.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on implementing robust clickjacking protection mechanisms including the use of X-Frame-Options headers, Content Security Policy directives, and proper frame-busting techniques to prevent malicious embedding of the Yamcs interface. Organizations should also consider implementing additional authentication layers, command validation checks, and audit logging to detect unauthorized command stack modifications. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-1021, which describes insufficient protection against clickjacking attacks, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers exploitation of web applications for privilege escalation. Immediate patching of Yamcs to version 5.8.7 or later is recommended, along with comprehensive security reviews of all web-based interfaces in mission-critical systems to prevent similar vulnerabilities from existing in other components of the operational environment.