CVE-2018-11463 : Security Advisory and Response

A weakness has been discovered in various versions of the SINUMERIK software systems, including SINUMERIK 808D V4.7, V4.8, 828D V4.7, and 840D sl V4.7, V4.8. The vulnerability is related to a buffer overflow in the service command application, potentially allowing a local attacker to execute code with elevated privileges. This CVE was published on December 12, 2018, by Siemens AG.

Understanding CVE-2018-11463

This CVE identifies a security flaw in Siemens' SINUMERIK software systems that could be exploited by an attacker with physical access to the affected systems.

What is CVE-2018-11463?

The vulnerability in the service command application of SINUMERIK software systems could lead to a buffer overflow, enabling a local attacker to execute code with higher privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2018-11463

The vulnerability could compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system if successfully exploited.
It requires user privileges but no user interaction for exploitation.
No public exploitation of this specific security vulnerability was reported at the time of the advisory publication.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-11463

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is classified as CWE-121: Stack-based Buffer Overflow.

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 be exploited by a local attacker with physical access to the affected systems, requiring user privileges but no user interaction.

Mitigation and Prevention

Steps to address and prevent the exploitation of this vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Siemens AG.
Restrict physical access to the affected systems.
Monitor system logs for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch software systems.
Implement strong access controls and user privilege management.
Conduct security training for system administrators and users.

Patching and Updates

Siemens AG may release patches to address this vulnerability.