CVE-2021-20998 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2021-20998, a critical vulnerability in WAGO managed switches enabling unauthorized user account creation. Find details, impact, affected systems, and effective mitigation strategies.
This CVE-2021-20998 article provides insights into the unauthorized creation of user accounts in managed switches by WAGO. It includes details about the vulnerability, impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
Understanding CVE-2021-20998
This section delves into the specifics of the CVE-2021-20998 vulnerability affecting WAGO managed switches.
What is CVE-2021-20998?
The vulnerability allows attackers to create unauthorized user accounts in multiple managed switches by WAGO using specially crafted packets without proper authorization.
The Impact of CVE-2021-20998
With a CVSS base score of 10 (Critical), the vulnerability poses a significant threat, with high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Attackers can exploit this flaw remotely over a network without requiring any user interaction.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-20998
This section outlines the technical details of the CVE-2021-20998 vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability exists in various versions of WAGO managed switches, enabling malicious actors to create user accounts without authorization.
Affected Systems and Versions
Managed switches by WAGO, including products like 0852-0303, 0852-1305, 0852-1505, 0852-1305/000-001, and 0852-1505/000-001 are impacted with specific firmware versions.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending crafted packets to the switches, leading to the unauthorized creation of user accounts.
Mitigation and Prevention
This section focuses on mitigating the CVE-2021-20998 vulnerability in WAGO managed switches.
Immediate Steps to Take
To mitigate the risk, users are advised to disable the web server, utilize the Command Line Interface (CLI), update firmware to the recommended versions, restrict network access, and avoid direct internet connections.
Long-Term Security Practices
Enabling robust access controls, implementing network segmentation, and regularly updating firmware and security patches can enhance long-term security resilience.
Patching and Updates
WAGO has released firmware updates that address the vulnerability for affected products, including 0852-0303, 0852-1305, 0852-1505, 0852-1305/000-001, and 0852-1505/000-001.