CVE-2023-5592 in MULTIPROG
Summary
by MITRE • 12/14/2023
Download of Code Without Integrity Check vulnerability in PHOENIX CONTACT MULTIPROG, PHOENIX CONTACT ProConOS eCLR (SDK) allows an unauthenticated remote attacker to download and execute applications without integrity checks on the device which may result in a complete loss of integrity.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/14/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-5592 represents a critical security flaw in PHOENIX CONTACT MULTIPROG and PHOENIX CONTACT ProConOS eCLR (SDK) systems that exposes devices to remote code execution risks. This issue stems from a lack of proper integrity verification mechanisms during the application download process, creating a pathway for unauthenticated attackers to compromise system integrity. The vulnerability specifically affects industrial control systems and embedded platforms where PHOENIX CONTACT products are deployed, potentially impacting critical infrastructure operations.
This weakness manifests as a failure to implement cryptographic integrity checks or digital signatures during the software download and execution phases. According to CWE-353, this vulnerability directly relates to the absence of proper validation mechanisms that should ensure downloaded code has not been tampered with during transit. The flaw allows an attacker to upload malicious applications that bypass normal security controls, effectively enabling arbitrary code execution on target devices without requiring authentication credentials. The technical implementation appears to lack mechanisms such as hash verification, digital signatures, or secure boot processes that would normally validate code integrity before execution.
The operational impact of CVE-2023-5592 extends beyond simple unauthorized access to represent a complete compromise of system integrity and potentially availability. Attackers can execute malicious code without any authentication requirements, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in industrial environments where operational technology systems are increasingly connected to corporate networks. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1204.002 which describes the use of legitimate credentials to gain access to systems, though in this case the attack bypasses authentication entirely. The implications include potential data manipulation, system disruption, and unauthorized control over industrial processes that could affect production operations, safety systems, and overall operational continuity.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper code integrity verification mechanisms, including cryptographic signature validation and hash checks before application execution. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit exposure of affected systems to untrusted networks. Regular security assessments and vulnerability management processes must be implemented to identify and remediate similar issues in industrial control systems. Organizations should also consider implementing secure boot processes and ensuring that all downloaded applications undergo proper integrity verification before deployment. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of applying security controls throughout the software lifecycle, particularly in industrial environments where the consequences of security breaches can be severe and far-reaching.