Hoplon InfoSec
14 Feb, 2025
CISA Issues 20 ICS Advisories on Critical Vulnerabilities. In an era where cyber threats continue to evolve, ensuring the security of industrial control systems (ICS) is more critical than ever. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has recently released twenty new advisories focused on addressing vulnerabilities in various ICS products. These advisories cover various industrial devices and software solutions from leading vendors such as Siemens, ORing, mySCADA, Mitsubishi Electric, and others.
In this comprehensive blog post, we delve into the details of these advisories, explain the potential risks associated with the identified vulnerabilities, and provide actionable recommendations to help organizations fortify their critical infrastructure.
Industrial control systems are pivotal in managing and automating critical processes across diverse manufacturing, energy, transportation, and utilities sectors. Any disruption or unauthorized access to these systems can result in significant operational downtime, financial losses, and physical damage. Recognizing these risks, CISA’s release of twenty new ICS advisories highlights a concerted effort to mitigate vulnerabilities that cyber attackers could exploit. Each advisory identifies specific security flaws that range from improper resource management and weak authentication to more severe issues like arbitrary code execution and buffer overflows.
The newly published advisories offer detailed insights into vulnerabilities across multiple industrial products. By assigning Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) identifiers to each issue, the advisories standardize the reporting of security flaws and help organizations prioritize remediation based on severity ratings such as CVSS (Common Vulnerability Scoring System) scores. The vulnerabilities include improper resource shutdown, inadequate input validation, cleartext storage of sensitive data, and more. CISA’s guidance encourages immediate action to update firmware, apply vendor-provided patches, and implement robust security measures such as network segmentation and strong authentication protocols.
Siemens, a major player in the industrial automation landscape, is prominently featured in the advisories with several products affected by critical vulnerabilities.
One of the advisories addresses the Siemens SIMATIC S7-1200 CPU family, which comprises widely used programmable logic controllers (PLCs) that are the backbone of many industrial control systems. The advisory details vulnerabilities such as improper resource shutdown or release (CVE-2022-38465) and improper validation of syntactic correctness of input (CVE-2025-24811). These vulnerabilities pose significant risks because attackers could manipulate system resources or inject malicious code through poorly validated inputs. The immediate recommendation for organizations using these controllers is to update their firmware to mitigate these risks effectively.
Another advisory for Siemens highlights an issue identified as an Observable Discrepancy (CVE-2023-37482) within the broader SIMATIC product line. With a CVSS v3 base score of 5.3, this vulnerability may not be the most severe but still requires careful attention. Siemens has recommended that users apply the latest security patches and isolate these devices from external networks whenever possible. By doing so, organizations can reduce the likelihood of an external attacker gaining unauthorized access.
The SIPROTEC 5 series, widely used in power system automation, is affected by multiple vulnerabilities. One of the identified issues involves the cleartext storage of sensitive information (CVE-2024-53651), which has been assigned a CVSS v3 base score of 4.6. This vulnerability could allow an attacker to intercept sensitive data if the device is compromised. In addition, another advisory in the SIPROTEC 5 series highlights a vulnerability that permits the activation of debug code, leading to arbitrary code execution (CVE-2024-53648). Siemens advises users to update their firmware and restrict network access to these devices to prevent exploitation.
A further advisory within the same product family warns of an unauthenticated, remote attacker being able to retrieve sensitive device information (CVE-2024-54015), prompting similar mitigation measures such as firmware updates and robust access controls.
Siemens RUGGEDCOM APE1808 networking devices have been flagged for multiple vulnerabilities that could allow a range of attacks, including Denial-of-Service (DoS) conditions, man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks, privilege escalation, and unauthorized code execution. A series of CVEs, including CVE-2024-36504, CVE-2024-46665, and several others, highlight the depth of the security issues present in these devices. The recommended mitigation strategy involves applying vendor-provided patches and isolating these devices from untrusted networks. This isolation minimizes exposure to potential external threats and reduces the attack surface.
Siemens Teamcenter, a product lifecycle management software, has also identified a vulnerability that could lead to URL redirection to untrusted sites (CVE-2025-23363). This flaw can lead users to malicious websites, potentially resulting in further compromise of sensitive information. The advisory urges users to apply the latest patches and enforce strict access controls to mitigate this risk. Similarly, the Siemens OpenV2G product is vulnerable to a buffer overflow issue (CVE-2025-24956). Buffer overflows can allow attackers to execute arbitrary code by sending oversized input to the software. Updating the software to the latest version is strongly recommended to address this vulnerability.
Further Siemens products affected by the advisories include the SCALANCE W700 wireless communication devices, simulation tools such as Questa and ModelSim, and process control systems like SIMATIC IPC DiagBase, SIMATIC IPC DiagMonitor, SIMATIC PCS neo, and TIA Administrator. For instance, vulnerabilities in the SCALANCE W700 devices include issues like improper restriction of communication channels, inadequate encryption strength, and potential race conditions. Meanwhile, the simulation tools are affected by an uncontrolled search path element vulnerability (CVE-2024-53977), which could lead to an elevation of privileges if exploited.
Siemens APOGEE PXC and TALON TC Series have also been flagged for vulnerabilities such as inadequate encryption strength and out-of-bounds reads (CVE-2024-54089 and CVE-2024-54090). In each case, the advisories stress the importance of applying vendor-recommended updates to maintain system security. Moreover, monitoring tools such as SIMATIC IPC DiagBase and SIMATIC IPC DiagMonitor are not exempt from these threats. A vulnerability resulting in incorrect permission assignment (CVE-2025-23403) could escalate privilege, urging users to apply immediate patches.
In process control systems, vulnerabilities in SIMATIC PCS neo and TIA Administrator—precisely, issues with insufficient session expiration (CVE-2024-45386)—highlight the need for regular patching and secure deployment practices. Siemens Opcenter Intelligence is another area of concern, as it is susceptible to several vulnerabilities, including improper authentication (CVE-2022-22127), improper limitation of the pathname to a restricted directory (CVE-2022-22128), deserialization of untrusted data (CVE-2023-46604), and the insertion of sensitive information into log files (CVE-2025-26490). These vulnerabilities could allow attackers to execute remote code or change user passwords, further underscoring the importance of updating software and securing network communications.
While Siemens represents a significant portion of the advisory content, other vendors are affected by critical vulnerabilities warranting attention.
The ORing IAP-420 industrial routers have been identified as vulnerable to several attack vectors, including Cross-site Scripting (XSS) and command injection (tracked as CVE-2024-5410 and CVE-2024-5411). These vulnerabilities could allow attackers to manipulate the router’s web interface or inject commands that disrupt normal operations. To mitigate these risks, organizations are advised to update the firmware of these devices promptly. Maintaining up-to-date firmware is one of the simplest yet most effective defenses against such vulnerabilities.
Industrial control systems rely on management software to oversee operations, and mySCADA’s myPRO Manager is no exception. This SCADA management software has been flagged for multiple vulnerabilities, including OS command injection (CVE-2025-25067), missing authentication for critical functions (CVE-2025-24865), cleartext storage of sensitive information (CVE-2025-22896), and susceptibility to Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) attacks (CVE-2025-23411). Given the critical nature of SCADA systems in industrial settings, users must update their software immediately and implement robust authentication measures to prevent unauthorized access.
These advisories also impact the renewable energy sector. Outback Power’s Mojave Inverter, which plays a crucial role in renewable energy systems, has been identified as vulnerable to several attack vectors. Attackers could exploit these vulnerabilities to disrupt energy production, exposing the system to risks such as exposure of sensitive information, command injection (CVE-2025-24861), and improper handling of sensitive query strings in GET requests (CVE-2025-26473). As the renewable energy market grows, ensuring that systems like the Mojave Inverter are secured through timely firmware updates and configuration reviews is vital to maintaining energy reliability and security.
The Dingtian DT-R0 series devices have been identified with a vulnerability that allows an authentication bypass using an alternate path or channel (CVE-2025-1283). For organizations utilizing these devices, updating the firmware is not only recommended but essential to prevent unauthorized access and potential operational disruptions.
Similarly, Mitsubishi Electric’s FA Engineering Software Products have been scrutinized for vulnerabilities that could significantly affect process automation. An updated advisory highlights missing authentication for critical functions (CVE-2023-6942) and unsafe reflection (CVE-2023-6943). Attackers could exploit these vulnerabilities to manipulate system behavior or access sensitive information. As a result, users are urged to apply the latest patches and follow best practices for securing their software environments.
Interestingly, the scope of these advisories also extends to devices that, while not traditionally considered part of the industrial control systems landscape, play an essential role in personal health monitoring. The Qardio Heart Health iOS/Android App and QardioARM A100, for instance, have been flagged for vulnerabilities that could expose private personal information (CVE-2025-20615), cause uncaught exceptions (CVE-2025-24836), and allow unauthorized access to files or directories (CVE-2025-23421). While these devices primarily focus on health and wellness, their security is paramount, given the sensitivity of the data they handle. Users and administrators should ensure that these applications and devices are updated with the latest security patches to protect personal health information.
The breadth and depth of vulnerabilities revealed in the latest advisories underscore the critical need for a proactive and layered approach to security in industrial control environments. Here are several best practices that organizations should consider:
One of the most effective ways to safeguard against these vulnerabilities is to ensure that all devices, controllers, and management software are running the latest firmware and software versions. Vendors release updates to address security flaws as soon as they are identified, making timely updates essential for maintaining security.
Another key defense mechanism is limiting access to critical systems. Organizations should enforce strong authentication protocols and isolate ICS networks from external networks. Network segmentation minimizes the potential for lateral movement by an attacker who might breach one network segment.
Continuous monitoring and periodic security audits can help detect and address vulnerabilities before they are exploited. Vulnerability assessments provide insights into which devices are at risk, allowing organizations to prioritize remediation efforts based on severity and impact.
Even the most secure systems can be compromised by human error. Regular training sessions and awareness programs for operational technology (OT) staff can help ensure that personnel know the latest threats and the importance of adhering to security best practices.
Despite all preventive measures, it is crucial to have an incident response plan in place. In a security breach, a well-defined plan can help contain the damage, facilitate rapid recovery, and guide stakeholder communication.
The industrial and energy sectors are among the most critical infrastructures that require steadfast protection against cyber threats. The vulnerabilities identified in these advisories can potentially disrupt operations, affect public safety, and cause significant economic damage. As industries continue to adopt more connected and automated systems, the complexity of the threat landscape also increases.
It is important to note that the impact of these vulnerabilities is not limited to operational disruptions. The exposure of sensitive information, unauthorized access, and potential control over critical systems can have cascading effects. For example, an attacker accessing a power grid’s control system could disrupt energy distribution, leading to widespread outages. Similarly, vulnerabilities in renewable energy systems, such as those involving the Mojave Inverter, could impact the reliability and efficiency of green energy production.
CISA’s release of these twenty new advisories is a stark reminder of industrial control systems’ ever-present and evolving threat landscape. Whether it is Siemens’ broad portfolio of products, ORing’s industrial routers, mySCADA’s management software, or even devices designed for personal health monitoring, the vulnerabilities identified in these advisories represent significant risks that cannot be ignored.
Organizations that rely on these systems are urged to take immediate action by reviewing the advisories in detail, applying vendor-recommended patches, updating firmware and software, and implementing robust security measures such as network segmentation and strong access controls. By prioritizing these steps, organizations can mitigate the current risks and build a stronger foundation for future security challenges.
As industrial environments continue to integrate more advanced technologies, maintaining vigilance and adhering to best practices in cybersecurity will remain paramount. Proactive measures, continuous monitoring, and regular updates are essential to safeguard the systems that drive our critical infrastructure. Ultimately, a collaborative approach between vendors, cybersecurity agencies like CISA, and end-users will be key to ensuring the resilience and security of our industrial control systems in the face of evolving cyber threats.
By staying informed and proactive, organizations can protect their assets and operations and contribute to the overall security of the critical infrastructure that underpins modern society. The time to act is now—ensuring that every firmware update, security patch, and access control measure is implemented could be the difference between operational continuity and a costly disruption.
In summary, the comprehensive nature of the latest CISA advisories highlights the necessity for robust security measures across all facets of industrial control systems. With attackers continually seeking new vulnerabilities to exploit, adopting a proactive, layered defense strategy is the best way to ensure long-term security and operational resilience.
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