CVE-2018-18997 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

The ABB GATE-E1 and GATE-E2 versions of the Pluto Safety PLC Gateway Ethernet devices have a vulnerability that allows unauthorized manipulation of the administrative web interface, potentially leading to the insertion of malicious payloads.

Understanding CVE-2018-18997

This CVE involves a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in ABB GATE-E1 and GATE-E2 devices, enabling attackers to inject harmful code into device properties.

What is CVE-2018-18997?

The vulnerability in ABB GATE-E1 and GATE-E2 devices permits unauthorized individuals to tamper with the administrative web interface, allowing the insertion of HTML/Javascript payloads into device properties.

The Impact of CVE-2018-18997

Exploitation of this vulnerability could enable attackers to display or execute malicious payloads in a visitor's browser, potentially leading to various security risks.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-18997

This section provides detailed technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows unauthenticated attackers to insert HTML/Javascript payloads into device properties through the administrative web interface.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: ABB GATE-E1 and GATE-E2
Versions: All versions

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can manipulate the administrative web interface to inject harmful payloads, which may be executed in a visitor's browser.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protective measures to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2018-18997.

Immediate Steps to Take

Implement network segmentation to restrict access to vulnerable devices.
Regularly monitor and analyze web traffic for suspicious activities.
Apply vendor-supplied patches or updates promptly.

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing.
Educate users on safe browsing practices and potential security threats.
Keep systems up to date with the latest security patches.
Employ web application firewalls to filter and block malicious traffic.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of patches and updates provided by ABB for the affected GATE-E1 and GATE-E2 devices.