CVE-2021-20589 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A Buffer access with incorrect length value vulnerability in various Mitsubishi products could allow a remote attacker to disrupt communication function through specially crafted packets.

Understanding CVE-2021-20589

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in Mitsubishi electric products that could be exploited by malicious attackers.

What is CVE-2021-20589?

The CVE-2021-20589 is a buffer access vulnerability found in Mitsubishi's GOT2000 series, GOT SIMPLE series, GT SoftGOT2000, and Tension Controller products. This vulnerability could permit an unauthenticated attacker to disrupt the communication function of the affected products by sending specially crafted packets.

The Impact of CVE-2021-20589

If exploited, this vulnerability could lead to a denial of service condition, causing a halt in the communication functionality of the impacted Mitsubishi products. This could result in operational disruptions and potential financial losses.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-20589

This section provides more detailed insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability exists in the communication driver versions of several Mitsubishi products, including GT27, GT25, GT23, GT21, GS21, GT SoftGOT2000, and Tension Controller LE7-40GU-L. The flaw allows an attacker to disrupt communication by sending malicious packets.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected versions include GT27 model communication driver versions 01.19.000 through 01.38.000, GT25 model communication driver versions 01.19.000 through 01.38.000, GT23 model communication driver versions 01.19.000 through 01.38.000, GT21 model communication driver versions 01.21.000 through 01.39.000, GS21 model communication driver versions 01.21.000 through 01.39.000, GT SoftGOT2000 versions 1.170C through 1.250L, and Tension Controller LE7-40GU-L Screen package data for MODBUS/TCP V1.00.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by a remote, unauthenticated attacker who sends specially crafted packets to the affected Mitsubishi products. By exploiting this flaw, the attacker can disrupt the communication function.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2021-20589, users and administrators can take certain immediate steps and implement long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Immediately applying security patches and updates provided by Mitsubishi is crucial to mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability. Limiting network access to the affected systems can also help reduce the attack surface.

Long-Term Security Practices

In the long term, organizations should regularly update their systems with the latest patches and security updates. Implementing network segmentation, access controls, and monitoring mechanisms can enhance overall cybersecurity posture.

Patching and Updates

Mitsubishi has released patches and updates to address the CVE-2021-20589 vulnerability. It is recommended to apply these patches promptly to ensure the security of the impacted products.