CVE-2021-38395 : What You Need to Know

A critical vulnerability has been identified in Honeywell Experion PKS C200, C200E, C300, and ACE controllers that could allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code and trigger a denial-of-service condition.

Understanding CVE-2021-38395

This CVE pertains to the improper neutralization of special elements in the output of Honeywell Experion PKS and ACE controllers, posing severe risks to the affected systems.

What is CVE-2021-38395?

The vulnerability in Honeywell Experion PKS and ACE controllers could be exploited by adversaries to remotely execute malicious code and disrupt the normal operation of the controllers, leading to a potential denial-of-service scenario.

The Impact of CVE-2021-38395

The presence of this vulnerability exposes Honeywell Experion PKS C200, C200E, C300, and ACE controllers to the risk of unauthorized remote code execution, which could severely impact the availability and integrity of industrial control systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-38395

The following section provides a detailed insight into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises due to the inadequate handling of special elements in the output of the controllers, enabling threat actors to exploit this flaw for executing arbitrary code remotely.

Affected Systems and Versions

Honeywell Experion PKS C200, C200E, C300, and ACE controllers are confirmed to be affected by this vulnerability, necessitating immediate attention to mitigate the risks.

Exploitation Mechanism

Adversaries can leverage this vulnerability to craft and send specially-crafted input to the controllers, thereby executing arbitrary code and potentially causing a denial-of-service condition.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems from the CVE-2021-38395 vulnerability, implement the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Users of Honeywell Experion PKS and ACE controllers are advised to adhere to the recommendations in the Experion Network and Security Planning Guide to bolster defenses against potential attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

In addition to immediate steps, organizations should prioritize ongoing security best practices, including regular security assessments, network segmentation, and access control mechanisms to enhance the resilience of industrial control systems.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by Honeywell to address the CVE-2021-38395 vulnerability effectively.