CVE-2024-45480

Remediation/Mitigation Strategy for CVE-2024-45480: B&R APROL Code Injection Vulnerability

This document outlines the remediation and mitigation strategy for CVE-2024-45480, a critical code injection vulnerability in the B&R APROL system.

1. Vulnerability Description:

  • CVE ID: CVE-2024-45480
  • Vulnerability Name: Improper control of generation of code (‘Code Injection’) in AprolCreateReport
  • Affected Product: B&R APROL versions prior to 4.4-00P5
  • Description: This vulnerability exists in the AprolCreateReport component of B&R APROL. It allows an unauthenticated, network-based attacker to inject arbitrary code during report generation. This is due to insufficient validation of inputs used when generating code within the AprolCreateReport function. Successful exploitation can lead to the attacker reading arbitrary files from the local system.

2. Severity:

  • CVSS v3 Score: 9.2 (Critical)

  • CVSS v3 Vector: The provided information does not include the specific CVSS v3 vector string. However, a score of 9.2 suggests a vector likely including the following attributes:

    • Attack Vector: Network (AV:N) - Exploitable over the network.
    • Attack Complexity: Low (AC:L) - Relatively easy to exploit.
    • Privileges Required: None (PR:N) - No authentication is required.
    • User Interaction: None (UI:N) - No user interaction is required.
    • Scope: Changed (S:C) - An exploited vulnerability can affect resources beyond the security scope of the vulnerable component.
    • Confidentiality Impact: High (C:H) - Significant loss of confidentiality.
    • Integrity Impact: None (I:N) - No impact on integrity.
    • Availability Impact: None (A:N) - No impact on availability.

  • Severity Level: Critical

3. Known Exploits:

While the provided information does not explicitly state that exploits are publicly available, the CVSS score and the nature of the vulnerability strongly suggest that proof-of-concept exploits or full exploits are likely to exist or will emerge quickly. Given the network accessibility and lack of authentication requirements, this vulnerability is likely to be actively targeted. Assume that active exploitation is possible.

4. Remediation Strategy:

The primary remediation strategy is to upgrade the B&R APROL system to a patched version, specifically version 4.4-00P5 or later.

  • Immediate Action:
    • Upgrade B&R APROL: The most effective remediation is to immediately upgrade all affected B&R APROL installations to version 4.4-00P5 or a later version that includes the fix for CVE-2024-45480. Obtain the upgrade package from the official B&R website or through your B&R support channels.
    • Prioritize Systems: Prioritize patching internet-facing APROL systems or those residing on less trusted network segments.
    • Thorough Testing: Before deploying the patch to production systems, thoroughly test the upgrade in a non-production environment that mirrors the production environment as closely as possible. Verify that all critical functionalities are working as expected after the upgrade.

5. Mitigation Strategy (If Immediate Patching is Not Possible):

If an immediate upgrade is not feasible due to operational constraints, the following mitigation measures should be implemented:

  • Network Segmentation: Isolate the APROL system behind a firewall and restrict network access to only authorized IP addresses and ports. This minimizes the attack surface.
  • Access Control Lists (ACLs): Implement strict ACLs on the firewall to allow only necessary communication to and from the APROL system. Block any unnecessary inbound or outbound traffic.
  • Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS): Deploy an IDS/IPS system to monitor network traffic for suspicious activity related to this vulnerability. Configure the IDS/IPS to alert on and/or block any detected exploitation attempts. Update the IDS/IPS ruleset regularly.
  • Web Application Firewall (WAF): If the AprolCreateReport functionality is exposed through a web application, deploy a WAF in front of the application to filter malicious requests and prevent code injection attacks. Configure the WAF with rules to block common code injection payloads.
  • Input Validation: Even as a temporary measure, investigate the possibility of tightening input validation at the application level (if possible without causing system instability). Specifically focus on the inputs used by the AprolCreateReport component and implement stricter validation to prevent the injection of malicious code. This is a highly complex undertaking and carries a risk of breaking existing functionality. Only proceed if you have a deep understanding of the APROL system’s internal workings and thorough testing capabilities.
  • Monitor Logs: Enable and actively monitor logs on the APROL system, firewalls, and IDS/IPS for any suspicious activity. Look for unusual network connections, error messages, or attempts to access sensitive files.
  • Disable Unnecessary Services: Disable any unnecessary services or functionalities within the APROL system that are not required for its core operation. This reduces the potential attack surface.
  • Principle of Least Privilege: Ensure that the APROL system and its users operate under the principle of least privilege. Grant only the minimum necessary permissions to each user and process.
  • Regular Backups: Ensure that regular backups of the APROL system are performed and stored securely in an offsite location. This will allow for quick recovery in the event of a successful attack.

6. Monitoring and Verification:

  • Post-Patch Verification: After applying the patch, thoroughly verify that the vulnerability is resolved and that all functionalities are working as expected. Conduct penetration testing to validate the fix.
  • Continuous Monitoring: Continuously monitor the APROL system and network traffic for any signs of compromise or suspicious activity. Regularly review logs and security alerts.
  • Vulnerability Scanning: Conduct regular vulnerability scans of the APROL system to identify any new vulnerabilities that may emerge.
  • Threat Intelligence: Stay up-to-date on the latest threat intelligence related to B&R APROL and CVE-2024-45480. Subscribe to security advisories and monitor security forums for information on new exploits or attack techniques.

7. Communication:

  • Inform Stakeholders: Communicate the vulnerability and remediation plan to all relevant stakeholders, including IT staff, security personnel, and business owners.
  • Incident Response Plan: Ensure that an incident response plan is in place to address any potential security incidents related to this vulnerability.

8. Disclaimer:

This remediation and mitigation strategy is based on the limited information provided and best practices. It is essential to consult with B&R APROL documentation and support resources for specific guidance on patching and securing your environment. The specific implementation and effectiveness of these measures will depend on the unique characteristics of your environment. Implement and test all changes in a controlled environment before deploying to production. This document is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a guarantee of security.

Assigner

Date

  • Published Date: 2025-03-25 05:15:39
  • Updated Date: 2025-03-25 05:15:39

More Details

CVE-2024-45480