CVE-2023-45321 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability has been identified in Bosch Rexroth AG's ctrlX HMI Web Panel devices, allowing an attacker to intercept sensitive information due to the lack of encryption. Here's what you need to know about CVE-2023-45321.

Understanding CVE-2023-45321

This section provides insights into the nature and impact of the CVE-2023-45321 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2023-45321?

The Android Client application on ctrlX HMI Web Panel devices uses HTTP instead of HTTPS to retrieve sensitive information, exposing credentials to connect to a remote MQTT broker without encryption. This flaw enables network-based attackers to intercept critical data.

The Impact of CVE-2023-45321

The vulnerability poses a significant risk as it allows an attacker in the same subnet network to intercept usernames and passwords required to authenticate with the MQTT server, compromising sensitive information.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-45321

Delve deeper into the technical aspects of the CVE-2023-45321 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw, categorized under CWE-319 (Cleartext Transmission of Sensitive Information), arises from the Android Client application's use of HTTP protocol without encryption, making sensitive information easily interceptable.

Affected Systems and Versions

Bosch Rexroth AG's ctrlX HMI Web Panel devices - WR21 series including WR2107, WR2110, and WR2115 - are impacted by this vulnerability with all versions being susceptible.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers positioned within the same subnet network as the HMI device can exploit the lack of encryption in the HTTP protocol to intercept and misuse critical information, including usernames and passwords.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover the steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-45321.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to configure the Android Client application to use HTTPS instead of HTTP for retrieving sensitive information. Additionally, implementing network segmentation can reduce the impact of potential interception.

Long-Term Security Practices

To enhance the security posture of ctrlX HMI Web Panel devices, users should enforce strong password policies, regularly monitor network traffic for abnormalities, and conduct security training for personnel.

Patching and Updates

It is crucial for users to apply patches or updates provided by Bosch Rexroth AG to address the vulnerability promptly and ensure the encryption of sensitive information transmitted by the Android Client application.