CVE-2021-43938:Elcomplus SmartPTT SCADA Server Authentication Bypass Vulnerability

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CVE-2021-43938 affects Elcomplus SmartPTT SCADA Server, allowing unauthenticated users to request various files from the server without any authentication or authorization. This missing authorization vulnerability (CWE-862) could potentially expose sensitive information or allow unauthorized access to critical system files.

Overview

The vulnerability in Elcomplus SmartPTT SCADA Server allows unauthenticated users to bypass authentication mechanisms and request various files directly from the server. This security flaw stems from improper authorization controls (CWE-862: Missing Authorization), enabling attackers to access files that should be restricted. In industrial control system environments, this could lead to exposure of sensitive operational data, configuration information, or other critical files that could be leveraged for further attacks. The vulnerability affects the server component of the SmartPTT SCADA system, which is used for monitoring and controlling industrial processes.

Remediation

Organizations using Elcomplus SmartPTT SCADA Server should:

  1. Update to the latest version of the software as recommended by Elcomplus
  2. Implement network segmentation to restrict access to the SCADA server from untrusted networks
  3. Deploy additional authentication mechanisms such as VPN or application-level firewalls when remote access is required
  4. Monitor system logs for unauthorized file access attempts
  5. Follow the specific mitigation guidance provided in the CISA advisory (ICSA-22-109-05)
  6. Consider implementing the principle of least privilege for all users accessing the system
  7. Conduct regular security assessments to identify and address similar vulnerabilities

References

  1. CISA Advisory: https://www.cisa.gov/uscert/ics/advisories/icsa-22-109-05
  2. CWE-862: Missing Authorization - https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/862.html
  3. MITRE ATT&CK for ICS: Exploitation of Remote Services - https://attack.mitre.org/techniques/T0866/
  4. ICS-CERT Recommended Practices - https://www.cisa.gov/uscert/ics/recommended-practices

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

Focus on What Matters

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

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