CVE-2018-11460 : What You Need to Know

A security flaw has been discovered in various versions of Siemens AG's SINUMERIK, including 808D V4.7, 808D V4.8, 828D V4.7, 840D sl V4.7, and 840D sl V4.8, allowing a local attacker to execute code with root privileges.

Understanding CVE-2018-11460

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Siemens AG's SINUMERIK CNC systems that could be exploited by a local attacker with elevated user privileges.

What is CVE-2018-11460?

The vulnerability allows an attacker to modify a CRAMFS archive, leading to the execution of attacker-controlled code with root privileges upon system reboot.

The Impact of CVE-2018-11460

The flaw can compromise system confidentiality, integrity, and availability if successfully exploited.
The attacker needs direct access to the affected systems but does not require any user interaction.
No known public instances of exploitation have been reported as of the advisory release date.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-11460

Siemens AG's SINUMERIK CNC systems are affected by this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw allows a local attacker with elevated user privileges to modify a CRAMFS archive, enabling the execution of attacker-controlled code with root privileges upon system reboot.

Affected Systems and Versions

SINUMERIK 808D V4.7: All versions
SINUMERIK 808D V4.8: All versions
SINUMERIK 828D V4.7: All versions < V4.7 SP6 HF1
SINUMERIK 840D sl V4.7: All versions < V4.7 SP6 HF5
SINUMERIK 840D sl V4.8: All versions < V4.8 SP3

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can only be exploited by an attacker with direct access to the affected systems.
It does not require any user interaction for exploitation.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the CVE-2018-11460 vulnerability:

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches or updates to the affected systems.
Restrict physical access to the systems to authorized personnel only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit system activity for any unauthorized changes.
Implement the principle of least privilege to limit user access rights.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that systems are regularly updated with the latest security patches from Siemens AG.