CVE-2021-43551 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

CVE-2021-43551, affecting OSIsoft PI Vision, involves a vulnerability that allows a remote attacker to inject code into a display, potentially leading to unauthorized data disclosure, modification, or deletion. This CVE has a CVSS base score of 6.5 (Medium Severity). Read on for detailed insights.

Understanding CVE-2021-43551

CVE-2021-43551 in OSIsoft PI Vision implicates a security flaw that can be exploited by an attacker with write access to inject malicious code into a display. This could result in significant data security risks.

What is CVE-2021-43551?

The vulnerability permits a remote attacker with appropriate privileges to insert malicious code into a PI Vision display, potentially leading to unauthorized access, modification, or deletion of data when viewed via Microsoft Internet Explorer. The threat primarily impacts PI System data and other accessible data based on the victim's user permissions.

The Impact of CVE-2021-43551

The vulnerability carries a Medium Severity rating with a CVSS base score of 6.5. The potential consequences include unauthorized information exposure, alteration, or removal of data if a victim interacts with a compromised display using Microsoft Internet Explorer.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-43551

CVE-2021-43551's technical aspects shed light on the specific vulnerability's description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows remote attackers to inject code into a PI Vision display, enabling unauthorized information disclosure, modification, or deletion upon interaction using Microsoft Internet Explorer.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: PI Vision
Vendor: OSIsoft
Versions: All versions up to and including 2021

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: High
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: Required
Scope: Changed
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: Low
Availability Impact: None

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing CVE-2021-43551 requires immediate steps to mitigate risks and long-term security practices to fortify system defenses.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to PI Vision 2021 or the latest version.
Apply recommended workarounds, such as configuring user access levels and auditing system hierarchy.

Long-Term Security Practices

Use modern web browsers like Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Mozilla FireFox.
Regularly audit the AF hierarchy to detect any unexpected elements or attributes.
Enforce security measures on AF elements and configure PI point security.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and refer to OSIsoft resources for detailed security measures and associated updates.