CVE-2023-36751 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability has been identified in multiple Siemens RUGGEDCOM products that could allow an authenticated attacker to execute arbitrary code with root privileges.

Understanding CVE-2023-36751

This CVE-2023-36751 affects multiple versions of Siemens RUGGEDCOM products due to a vulnerability in the install-app URL parameter in the web interface.

What is CVE-2023-36751?

CVE-2023-36751 is a critical vulnerability in Siemens RUGGEDCOM products that allows an authenticated attacker to exploit a command injection flaw and execute arbitrary code with root privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2023-36751

The impact of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized remote code execution, enabling an attacker to take full control of the affected devices.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-36751

The vulnerability in CVE-2023-36751 arises from missing server-side input sanitation in the install-app URL parameter of vulnerable Siemens RUGGEDCOM products.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows an authenticated remote attacker to inject and execute arbitrary commands with root privileges, posing a significant security risk.

Affected Systems and Versions

Siemens RUGGEDCOM ROX MX5000 (All versions < V2.16.0)
Siemens RUGGEDCOM ROX MX5000RE (All versions < V2.16.0)
Siemens RUGGEDCOM ROX RX1400 (All versions < V2.16.0)
Siemens RUGGEDCOM ROX RX1500 (All versions < V2.16.0)
Siemens RUGGEDCOM ROX RX1501 (All versions < V2.16.0)
Siemens RUGGEDCOM ROX RX1510 (All versions < V2.16.0)
Siemens RUGGEDCOM ROX RX1511 (All versions < V2.16.0)
Siemens RUGGEDCOM ROX RX1512 (All versions < V2.16.0)
Siemens RUGGEDCOM ROX RX1524 (All versions < V2.16.0)
Siemens RUGGEDCOM ROX RX1536 (All versions < V2.16.0)
Siemens RUGGEDCOM ROX RX5000 (All versions < V2.16.0)

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting the vulnerability involves crafting a malicious request to the install-app URL parameter, allowing the attacker to execute unauthorized commands.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-36751, immediate actions need to be taken to secure vulnerable Siemens RUGGEDCOM devices and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Siemens users should update the affected products to version V2.16.0 or higher to mitigate the vulnerability.
Disable remote access to vulnerable devices until they are patched to prevent unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and apply security updates provided by Siemens for RUGGEDCOM products to prevent future vulnerabilities.
Implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potential attacks.

Patching and Updates

Siemens has released patches addressing the vulnerability. Users are advised to apply the latest updates and follow best security practices to enhance device protection.