In 2024, the realm of cybersecurity faced unprecedented challenges as the surge in Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs) reached a record high. For Operational Technology (OT) environments, the focus has increasingly turned towards authentication vulnerabilities. These vulnerabilities present critical security risks, compromising the integrity, availability, and confidentiality of industrial systems.

The Surge in CVEs: A Record-Breaking Year

The year 2024 witnessed a remarkable surge in the number of disclosed CVEs, surpassing 40,000 for the first time. This 38% increase from 2023 underscores the growing complexity of software systems and the expanding attack surface for cybercriminals. Several factors contributed to this surge, including:

• Growing Software Complexity: As OT systems integrate more advanced features and interconnected devices, the potential for security flaws increases.
• Expanded Attack Surface: The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and the convergence of IT and OT networks have created more entry points for attackers.
• Increased Awareness and Reporting: Improved vulnerability detection and reporting mechanisms have led to more comprehensive documentation of security issues.
  

Common Authentication Vulnerabilities in OT

Authentication vulnerabilities remain a critical concern in OT environments. These vulnerabilities can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and operational disruptions. Some common authentication vulnerabilities include:

• Weak Passwords: Default or easily guessable passwords continue to be a significant risk. OT devices often come with default credentials that are not changed, making them easy targets for attackers.
• Lack of Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Many OT systems still rely on single-factor authentication, which is inadequate against sophisticated attacks. Implementing MFA can significantly enhance security.
• Unpatched Systems: Vulnerabilities in authentication mechanisms are often exploited when systems are not regularly updated. Ensuring timely patches and updates is crucial.
• Credential Management: Poor credential management practices, such as sharing passwords or storing them in plain text, can lead to security breaches.

Notable CVEs in 2024

Several notable CVEs related to authentication vulnerabilities were disclosed in 2024, highlighting the ongoing challenges in securing OT environments:

• CVE-2024-8306 This vulnerability allows a non-admin authenticated user to perform privilege escalation by tampering with the binaries. This could lead to unauthorized access, loss of confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the workstation
• CVE-2024-2013 is an authentication bypass vulnerability found in the FOXMAN-UN/UNEM server/API Gateway component. This vulnerability allows attackers without any prior access to interact with the services and the post-authentication attack surface.
• CVE-2024-28020 is a user/password reuse vulnerability found in the FOXMAN-UN/UNEM application and server management by Hitachi Energy. This vulnerability allows a malicious high-privileged user to exploit passwords and login information through complex routines, extending access on the server and other services.
• CVE-2024-28022 is an arbitrary authentication attempt vulnerability found in the FOXMAN-UN/UNEM server/API Gateway component by Hitachi Energy. This vulnerability allows a malicious user to perform an arbitrary number of authentication attempts using different passwords, eventually gaining access to the targeted account.
• CVE-2024-6515 The vulnerability allows a web browser interface to manipulate application username/password in clear text or Base64 encoding, providing a higher probability of unintended credentials exposure.
• CVE-2024-48845 This vulnerability arises from weak password reset rules, allowing the storage of weak passwords that could facilitate unauthorized admin/application access.
• CVE-2024-51545 This vulnerability allows attackers to access application-level username add, delete, modify, and list functions. By exploiting this vulnerability, attackers can discover valid usernames, potentially leading to unauthorized access or information disclosure.
• CVE-2024-51551 This vulnerability involves default credentials that are publicly available, allowing unauthorized access to the systems.
• CVE-2024-51555 This vulnerability allows access to an Aspect device using publicly available default credentials since the system does not require the installer to change default credentials.

Mitigating Authentication Vulnerabilities

Addressing authentication vulnerabilities in OT requires a multi-faceted approach:

• Implement Strong Password Policies: Encourage the use of complex passwords and regularly change default credentials.
• Adopt Multi-Factor Authentication: Enhance security by requiring additional verification methods beyond just passwords.
• Regular Updates and Patching: Keep systems up to date with the latest security patches and firmware updates.
• Robust Credential Management: Implement secure methods for storing and managing credentials, such as using password managers and encryption.

These vulnerabilities highlight the importance of strong authentication mechanisms and the need for regular security updates in OT systems. Ensuring that default passwords are changed, implementing multi-factor authentication, and keeping software up to date are crucial steps in protecting OT environments.

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Author: Vinny Sagar, Solution Architect, swIDch

With over 15 years of experience in pre-sales, consulting and software development in the Identity and Cyber Security space Vinny has helped many clients across various industries and regions to design and deploy Zero Trust solutions that meet their specific needs and challenges.