CVE-2022-4048 : Security Advisory and Response

Understanding CVE-2022-4048

Inadequate Encryption Strength in CODESYS Development System V3 prior to V3.5.18.40 allows unauthorized access and code manipulation by a local attacker.

What is CVE-2022-4048?

The CVE-2022-4048 vulnerability in CODESYS Development System V3 before V3.5.18.40 enables an unauthenticated local attacker to infiltrate and manipulate the encrypted boot application's code.

The Impact of CVE-2022-4048

The impact of CVE-2022-4048 is rated as HIGH severity with confidentiality and integrity impacts. An attacker with local access can exploit this vulnerability to compromise the integrity of the encrypted boot application.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-4048

The vulnerability is classified with a CVSS Base Score of 7.7 (High severity) based on CVSS:3.1 metrics. It poses a significant risk due to low attack complexity and high confidentiality and integrity impacts. The attack vector is local, requiring no user interaction.

Vulnerability Description

Inadequate Encryption Strength in CODESYS Development System V3 versions allows unauthenticated local attackers to access and manipulate the encrypted boot application's code.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected system is CODESYS Development System V3 versions prior to V3.5.18.40.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an unauthenticated local attacker to gain unauthorized access to and tamper with the code of the encrypted boot application.

Mitigation and Prevention

Implementing immediate steps and long-term security practices are crucial to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2022-4048.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to the latest version of CODESYS Development System V3 (V3.5.18.40 or above).
Restrict and monitor access to the encrypted boot application.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly apply security patches and updates to the system.
Conduct security assessments and audits to identify and address vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Download and apply the necessary patches provided by CODESYS to address the inadequate encryption strength vulnerability.