CVE-2021-37160:Firmware Validation Vulnerability in Swisslog Healthcare Nexus Panel HMI3 Control Panel

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A critical security vulnerability (CVE-2021-37160) was discovered in the HMI3 Control Panel of Swisslog Healthcare Nexus Panel running software versions prior to 7.2.5.7. The vulnerability stems from a lack of firmware validation during the file upload process for firmware updates. Specifically, the system does not perform cryptographic signature validation of firmware files before installation, which could allow an attacker to upload and execute malicious firmware.

Overview

This vulnerability (CWE-347: Improper Verification of Cryptographic Signature) affects the Swisslog Healthcare Nexus Panel's HMI3 Control Panel when running software versions prior to 7.2.5.7. The absence of firmware validation mechanisms means that the system accepts any firmware file without verifying its authenticity or integrity. An attacker with access to the firmware update functionality could potentially upload malicious firmware, which could lead to complete system compromise, unauthorized access to sensitive healthcare data, disruption of pneumatic tube systems in healthcare facilities, or other malicious activities. This vulnerability is part of a larger set of vulnerabilities in Swisslog Healthcare systems collectively known as "PwnedPiper."

Remediation

  1. Update to Nexus Software version 7.2.5.7 or later, which includes firmware validation mechanisms.
  2. Implement network segmentation to limit access to the Nexus Panel systems.
  3. Monitor network traffic to and from these systems for suspicious activities.
  4. Restrict physical and network access to the control panels to authorized personnel only.
  5. Contact Swisslog Healthcare technical support for assistance with implementing security patches and best practices.
  6. Follow the specific mitigation instructions provided in the vendor security bulletin.

References

  1. Armis PwnedPiper Research: https://www.armis.com/PwnedPiper
  2. Swisslog Healthcare Product Information: https://www.swisslog-healthcare.com
  3. Vendor Security Advisory: https://www.swisslog-healthcare.com/-/media/swisslog-healthcare/documents/customer-service/armis-documents/cve-2021-37160-bulletin---no-firmware-update-validation.pdf
  4. Swisslog Healthcare CVE Disclosures Page: https://www.swisslog-healthcare.com/en-us/customer-care/security-information/cve-disclosures

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Health Care & Social Assistance: Low
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  2. Educational Services: Low
    Educational Services
  3. Accommodation & Food Services: Low
    Accommodation & Food Services
  4. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services: Low
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  5. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting: Low
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  6. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation: Low
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  7. Construction: Low
    Construction
  8. Finance and Insurance: Low
    Finance and Insurance
  9. Information: Low
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises: Low
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing: Low
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining: Low
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration): Low
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services: Low
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration: Low
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing: Low
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade: Low
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing: Low
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities: Low
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade: Low
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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