CVE-2018-11461 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

An issue has been detected in several versions of Siemens AG's SINUMERIK software, including 808D V4.7, 808D V4.8, 828D V4.7, 840D sl V4.7, and 840D sl V4.8, potentially allowing a local attacker to escalate privileges.

Understanding CVE-2018-11461

This CVE involves a vulnerability in Siemens AG's SINUMERIK software that could be exploited by a local attacker with user privileges to escalate to an elevated user without root access.

What is CVE-2018-11461?

The vulnerability in SINUMERIK software versions 808D V4.7, 808D V4.8, 828D V4.7, 840D sl V4.7, and 840D sl V4.8 allows local attackers to exploit the service command application, leading to privilege escalation.

The Impact of CVE-2018-11461

Successful exploitation could compromise system confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
No public exploitation of this vulnerability was reported at the time of the advisory publication.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-11461

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability enables a local attacker with user privileges to exploit the service command application, allowing privilege escalation to an elevated user (excluding root).

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

Local access to affected systems and user privileges are required for exploitation.
No user interaction is needed for successful exploitation.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from this vulnerability is crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Monitor vendor's security advisories for patches and updates.
Implement the principle of least privilege to restrict user access.
Regularly review and update user privileges.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security training for system users.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential breaches.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Siemens AG promptly.