Description
Weak password requirements in OpenC3 COSMOS v6.0.0 allow attackers to bypass authentication via a brute force attack.
EPSS Score:
0%
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of EUVD-2025-18268
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
Vulnerability Description: The vulnerability in OpenC3 COSMOS v6.0.0 pertains to weak password requirements, which allow attackers to bypass authentication through brute force attacks. This weakness significantly undermines the security of the system by making it easier for unauthorized users to gain access.
Severity Evaluation:
The Base Score of 9.8, according to CVSS v3.1, indicates a critical vulnerability. The scoring vector CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H breaks down as follows:
- Attack Vector (AV): Network (N) - The vulnerability is exploitable over the network.
- Attack Complexity (AC): Low (L) - The attack requires minimal skill or resources.
- Privileges Required (PR): None (N) - No special privileges are needed to exploit the vulnerability.
- User Interaction (UI): None (N) - No user interaction is required.
- Scope (S): Unchanged (U) - The vulnerability does not change the security scope.
- Confidentiality (C): High (H) - Complete loss of confidentiality.
- Integrity (I): High (H) - Complete loss of integrity.
- Availability (A): High (H) - Complete loss of availability.
This high severity score underscores the critical nature of the vulnerability, necessitating immediate attention and remediation.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
Attack Vectors:
- Brute Force Attacks: Attackers can use automated tools to systematically guess passwords until the correct one is found.
- Dictionary Attacks: Using a predefined list of common passwords to attempt authentication.
- Credential Stuffing: Using previously breached credentials to attempt access.
Exploitation Methods:
- Automated Scripts: Scripts designed to iterate through possible password combinations.
- Botnets: Distributed networks of compromised systems used to perform brute force attacks.
- Phishing: Tricking users into revealing their passwords, which can then be used in brute force attacks.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
Affected Systems:
- Systems running OpenC3 COSMOS v6.0.0.
- Any system integrated with OpenC3 COSMOS v6.0.0 that relies on its authentication mechanisms.
Software Versions:
- OpenC3 COSMOS v6.0.0.
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
Immediate Actions:
- Patch Management: Apply the latest security patches and updates from OpenC3.
- Password Policy Enforcement: Implement strong password policies, including complexity requirements and regular password changes.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Enable MFA to add an additional layer of security.
- Account Lockout Policies: Implement account lockout policies after a certain number of failed login attempts.
Long-Term Strategies:
- Regular Security Audits: Conduct regular security assessments to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.
- User Training: Educate users on the importance of strong passwords and recognizing phishing attempts.
- Monitoring and Logging: Implement robust monitoring and logging to detect and respond to suspicious activities.
5. Impact on European Cybersecurity Landscape
The vulnerability in OpenC3 COSMOS v6.0.0 poses a significant risk to organizations using this software, particularly those in critical sectors such as aerospace, defense, and research. The potential for unauthorized access and data breaches could lead to:
- Data Theft: Sensitive information could be stolen, leading to financial and reputational damage.
- Operational Disruption: Unauthorized access could disrupt critical operations, leading to downtime and loss of productivity.
- Compliance Issues: Failure to protect data could result in non-compliance with regulations such as GDPR, leading to legal consequences.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
Technical Analysis:
- Weak Password Requirements: The vulnerability stems from insufficient password complexity and length requirements, making it easier for attackers to guess passwords.
- Authentication Mechanisms: The authentication process in OpenC3 COSMOS v6.0.0 does not adequately protect against brute force attacks, allowing multiple failed login attempts without lockout.
Detection and Response:
- Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Deploy IDS to detect unusual login attempts and brute force attacks.
- Security Information and Event Management (SIEM): Use SIEM solutions to correlate and analyze security events for early detection of attacks.
- Incident Response Plan: Develop and implement an incident response plan to quickly address and mitigate any security breaches.
References:
By addressing this vulnerability promptly and comprehensively, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches, thereby enhancing their overall cybersecurity posture.