CVE-2018-5461 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A security weakness related to encryption strength has been found in Belden Hirschmann RS, RSR, RSB, MACH100, MACH1000, MACH4000, MS, and OCTOPUS Classic Platform Switches, potentially enabling attackers to acquire sensitive information.

Understanding CVE-2018-5461

This CVE involves an inadequate encryption strength vulnerability in the web interface of specific Hirschmann Automation and Control GmbH Classic Platform Switches.

What is CVE-2018-5461?

The vulnerability allows attackers to execute successful man-in-the-middle attacks, potentially leading to the acquisition of sensitive data.

The Impact of CVE-2018-5461

Attackers could exploit this weakness to intercept and obtain confidential information passing through the affected switches.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-5461

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is related to inadequate encryption strength in the web interface of the affected switches.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Hirschmann Automation and Control GmbH Classic Platform Switches
Versions: Hirschmann Automation and Control GmbH Classic Platform Switches

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the insufficient encryption strength to conduct man-in-the-middle attacks and intercept sensitive information.

Mitigation and Prevention

Here are the steps to mitigate and prevent exploitation of CVE-2018-5461.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable remote access to the affected switches if not required.
Implement network segmentation to limit access to critical systems.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update firmware and security patches for the switches.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities.
Educate users and administrators about secure configuration practices.
Consider implementing additional encryption measures to enhance data protection.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches and updates provided by the vendor to address the encryption strength vulnerability in the web interface of the affected switches.