Siemens SINEC NMS
Plan Patch7.8ICS-CERT ICSA-23-285-08Oct 10, 2023
Attack VectorLocal
Auth RequiredLow
ComplexityLow
User InteractionNone needed
Summary
SINEC NMS versions before 2.0 contain a code injection vulnerability (CWE-732) and a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability (CWE-79). Code injection could allow execution of arbitrary commands on the NMS system. Stored XSS could allow an attacker to inject malicious code into the web interface that executes when other users access the system, potentially compromising their sessions or redirecting actions. The vulnerabilities require local or low-privilege access to the NMS system or authenticated access to the web interface.
What this means
What could happen
An attacker with local access could inject code into SINEC NMS or view sensitive information through stored cross-site scripting, potentially allowing manipulation of network monitoring and control of connected industrial devices.
Who's at risk
Water utilities and electric utilities that use Siemens SINEC NMS (versions before 2.0) for centralized monitoring and management of network infrastructure and industrial devices. This includes organizations managing SNMP-based monitoring of substations, pump stations, treatment facilities, and other critical infrastructure.
How it could be exploited
An attacker with local or low-privilege access to SINEC NMS could exploit code injection to execute arbitrary commands or use stored XSS to compromise the web interface. If SINEC NMS is used to manage critical devices, the attacker could redirect monitoring data or alter device configurations.
Prerequisites
- Local or low-privilege user access to SINEC NMS system
- Access to the SNMP servers monitored by NMS (for CVE-2023-44315)
- Browser access to SINEC NMS web interface (for stored XSS exploitation)
Low complexity local attackAffects network monitoring systemsCould impact configuration of connected critical devicesLow EPSS score but has workarounds available
Exploitability
Low exploit probability (EPSS 0.5%)
Affected products (1)
ProductAffected VersionsFix Status
SINEC NMS<V2.02.0
Remediation & Mitigation
0/5
Do now
0/2WORKAROUNDRestrict network access to SNMP servers managed by SINEC NMS to authorized hosts only
WORKAROUNDLimit SINEC NMS system access to trusted personnel only and disable unnecessary user accounts
Schedule — requires maintenance window
0/1Patching may require device reboot — plan for process interruption
HOTFIXUpdate SINEC NMS to version 2.0 or later
Long-term hardening
0/2HARDENINGPlace SINEC NMS and all monitored devices behind a firewall, isolated from business networks and the internet
HARDENINGRequire VPN for any remote access to SINEC NMS and keep VPN software current
CVEs (2)
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