External risk intelligence

Omron Automation Controller Authentication Bypass Vulnerability

CVE advisorySeverity: HIGH (CVSS 7.5)

CVE-2022-33971

An authentication bypass vulnerability affects Omron machine automation controllers. This could allow an adjacent attacker to cause a denial-of-service or execute malicious programs, impacting operational continuity and data integrity. The realistic business risk is assessed as very unlikely due to typical network segm

1Halo Surface Signal

Authentication Bypass

Omron Nx701 1600 Firmware

1.28 and earlier1.48 and earlierbefore 1.48

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2022-33971

This vulnerability impacts industrial automation controllers typically deployed within isolated, non-public operational technology (OT) networks. Exploitation requires adjacent network access and the ability to analyze proprietary communication protocols. Due to these significant architectural barriers and the lack of internet exposure, it is very unlikely to be reachable from the public internet.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

The identified vulnerability affects Omron machine automation controllers. The core issue is an authentication bypass that allows an adjacent attacker to capture and replay communication. This could lead to a denial-of-service condition or the execution of malicious code, disrupting operational processes.

  • Vulnerable Omron automation controllers
  • Authentication bypass via capture-replay
  • Operational disruption and code execution

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

An attacker with adjacent network access could analyze communication between the controller and specific internal software. This analysis allows the attacker to bypass authentication. The attacker can then trigger a denial-of-service condition or execute malicious programs.

  • Adjacent network access required.
  • Analyze communication to bypass authentication.
  • Execute malicious programs or cause denial of service.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability affects specific Omron machine automation controllers. An adjacent attacker capable of analyzing internal communication could potentially cause a denial-of-service condition or execute malicious code. This could disrupt operations and compromise data integrity.

  • Attackers require advanced skills.
  • Adjacent network access is necessary.
  • Business risk is significant.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

This vulnerability impacts specific Omron industrial automation controllers. An adjacent attacker could potentially bypass authentication, leading to a denial-of-service condition or the execution of malicious programs. This could disrupt operations and compromise data integrity.

  • Identify all affected controller assets.
  • Reduce exposure or isolate network risk.
  • Apply vendor fixes and validate.
  • Monitor for related issues.

Frequently asked questions

What are Omron NX7, NX1, and NJ series controllers?

Omron NX7, NX1, and NJ series controllers are industrial automation devices that combine logic and motion control functionalities. They are central to the Sysmac automation platform, enabling integrated control of various machine components like safety devices, vision systems, and servo drives. These controllers support high-speed, accurate operations and facilitate data management for manufacturing innovation.

What is the CWE weakness class for CVE-2022-33971?

CVE-2022-33971 is associated with CWE-294, 'Authentication Bypass by Capture-replay.' This weakness indicates that an attacker could potentially intercept and reuse authentication information to gain unauthorized access.

How can an attacker exploit the Omron vulnerability?

An adjacent attacker can exploit this vulnerability by analyzing communication between the controller and specific Omron software. This analysis can lead to a denial-of-service condition or the execution of malicious programs. Another related vulnerability, CWE-489 (Active Debug Code), can also allow for denial-of-service or malicious program execution.

What is the relevance of CVE-2022-33971 in industrial environments?

This vulnerability impacts Omron's NJ/NX-series machine automation controllers, which are used in a wide range of applications, from rotating equipment to robotic arms, and include safety controllers. Exploitation could lead to manipulation and disruption of physical processes, potentially causing significant damage.

How can organizations mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2022-33971?

Omron recommends updating affected controller firmware to the latest versions. Additionally, implementing security measures such as antivirus protection on connected PCs, minimizing connections to open networks, using firewalls, and restricting physical access can help mitigate risks.

References