CVE-2020-14504 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

CVE-2020-14504 was published on March 4, 2021, and affects the Rockwell Automation 1734-AENTR communication module. The vulnerability allows remote attackers to modify configuration settings through mishandled authentication in the web interface.

Understanding CVE-2020-14504

This CVE entry identifies a security flaw in the 1734-AENTR communication module that could be exploited by unauthenticated attackers.

What is CVE-2020-14504?

The vulnerability in CVE-2020-14504 arises from improper authentication handling in the web interface of the 1734-AENTR communication module. Attackers can exploit this weakness to potentially alter configuration settings.

The Impact of CVE-2020-14504

The impact of this vulnerability includes:

Unauthorized modification of configuration settings
Potential disruption of operations relying on the affected module

Technical Details of CVE-2020-14504

This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The 1734-AENTR communication module's web interface mishandles authentication for HTTP POST requests, enabling remote, unauthenticated attackers to send crafted requests that may lead to configuration modifications.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following systems and versions are affected:

Product: 1734-AENTR
Vendor: Rockwell Automation
Versions:
Series B: 4.001 to 4.005, and 5.011 to 5.017
Series C: 6.011 and 6.012

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by sending specially crafted HTTP POST requests to the web interface of the 1734-AENTR module, bypassing authentication mechanisms to potentially modify configuration settings.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-14504 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches or updates promptly
Implement network segmentation to restrict access to vulnerable systems
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and firmware
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities
Educate users on secure authentication practices

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of patches and updates provided by Rockwell Automation to address the authentication mishandling in the 1734-AENTR communication module.