CVE-2021-22816 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A CWE-754 vulnerability has been identified in SCADAPack RTUs that could lead to a Denial of Service when receiving a specially crafted request over Modbus.

Understanding CVE-2021-22816

This CVE-2021-22816 affects SCADAPack RTUs with specific firmware versions in a Modbus server configuration.

What is CVE-2021-22816?

CVE-2021-22816 is a vulnerability in SCADAPack RTUs that can result in a Denial of Service when a specially crafted request is sent over Modbus.

The Impact of CVE-2021-22816

The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to disrupt the operations of affected SCADAPack RTUs, potentially leading to service interruptions and system downtime.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-22816

This section provides more insight into the vulnerability, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from an improper check for unusual or exceptional conditions when processing Modbus requests, allowing for a Denial of Service attack.

Affected Systems and Versions

SCADAPack 312E, 313E, 314E, 330E, 333E, 334E, 337E, 350E, and 357E RTUs with firmware versions V8.18.1 and prior are impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2021-22816 involves sending a specifically crafted request over Modbus to trigger the Denial of Service condition on the affected RTUs.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard against CVE-2021-22816, immediate steps and long-term security practices are crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade affected SCADAPack RTUs to a firmware version that includes the necessary security patches.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for security advisories and updates from SCADAPack to stay informed about potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply relevant security patches and updates provided by SCADAPack promptly to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities.