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Hitachi ABB Power Grids FOX615 Multiservice-Multiplexer

Act Now9.1ICS-CERT ICSA-21-007-01Jan 7, 2021
Attack VectorNetwork
Auth RequiredNone
ComplexityLow
User InteractionNone needed
Summary

An authentication bypass vulnerability in the Hitachi ABB Power Grids FOX615 multiservice multiplexer (FOX61x series using CESM1/CESM2 firmware) allows remote attackers to access the device without credentials. Successful exploitation could permit an attacker to read, modify, or intercept communications handled by the multiplexer, potentially affecting grid control and protection functions. The vulnerability exists in FOX61x R1 versions before cesne_r1h07_12.esw and FOX61x R2 versions before cesne_r2d14_03.esw.

What this means
What could happen
An attacker could gain remote access to the FOX615 multiservice multiplexer without any credentials, potentially allowing them to read or modify communications, control setpoints, or disrupt power grid monitoring and protection systems.
Who's at risk
Power utility operators and transmission/distribution system owners using Hitachi ABB Power Grids FOX615 multiservice multiplexers for grid monitoring, protection, and control. This equipment is typically deployed in substations and control centers to manage communications between relays, RTUs, and SCADA systems. Affects both R1 and R2 hardware versions.
How it could be exploited
An attacker with network access to the FOX615 device (typically port 502 for Modbus or similar protocol) can send a specially crafted request that bypasses authentication checks. The device will accept commands without requiring a password or user credentials, granting the attacker the same access as an authorized operator.
Prerequisites
  • Network access to the FOX615 device on its management/data port (typically accessible from engineering workstations or substation networks)
  • No credentials required for exploitation
remotely exploitableno authentication requiredlow complexityhigh EPSS score (78.6%)affects critical grid infrastructure
Exploitability
High exploit probability (EPSS 78.6%)
Affected products (2)
2 with fix
ProductAffected VersionsFix Status
FOX61x R1 using CESM1/CESM2: All< cesne r1h07 12.eswcesne_r1h07_12.esw or newer
FOX61x R2 using CESM1/CESM2: All< cesne r2d14 03.eswcesne_r2d14_03.esw or newer
Remediation & Mitigation
0/6
Do now
0/2
WORKAROUNDRestrict network access to FOX615 devices using firewall rules; only permit communication from authorized engineering workstations and SCADA servers
WORKAROUNDIf remote access is required, use a VPN with current security patches to add an authentication layer between remote users and the FOX615 device
Schedule — requires maintenance window
0/2

Patching may require device reboot — plan for process interruption

HOTFIXUpdate FOX61x R1 CESM1/CESM2 to firmware version cesne_r1h07_12.esw or newer
HOTFIXUpdate FOX61x R2 CESM1/CESM2 to firmware version cesne_r2d14_03.esw or newer
Long-term hardening
0/2
HARDENINGImplement network segmentation to isolate the FOX615 device and other control systems from the corporate network and internet
HARDENINGDisable internet access from FOX615 devices and any workstations that communicate with them
View full CISA ICS-CERT advisory
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