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Critical Vulnerability in MOBATIME Network Master Clock Affects Key Sectors

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A recent advisory from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has brought to light a critical vulnerability in the MOBATIME Network Master Clock - DTS 4801, which is integral to operations in sectors such as Healthcare, Public Health, and Transportation Systems. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-12286, stems from the use of default credentials that could allow unauthorized SSH access with low attack complexity. Time synchronization is crucial in these sectors to ensure the coordination and reliability of critical operations, such as patient care and transportation scheduling. Default credentials are a common and highly exploitable attack vector in Industrial Control System (ICS) environments, making this vulnerability uniquely risky. With a CVSS severity score of 9.3, the potential for exploitation poses a significant threat to the integrity of time-sensitive operations across affected industries. The advisory emphasizes the urgent need for organizations using the affected product to implement recommended mitigations to secure their systems against potential attacks. The advisory emphasizes the urgent need for organizations using the affected product to implement recommended mitigations to secure their systems against potential attacks.

Threats and Vulnerabilities

The vulnerability in question, CVE-2024-12286, is due to the use of default credentials within the DTS 4801 Master Clock's firmware version 00020419.01.02020154, allowing for unauthorized SSH access. This flaw could enable attackers to gain full control over the system, jeopardizing the accuracy of time synchronization critical to the functioning of healthcare and transportation systems. The CVSS scores, v3.1: 9.8 and v4: 9.3, reflect the high severity and low complexity of potential attacks, underscoring the immediate need for attention from organizations relying on this technology.

Client Impact

The exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to severe operational disruptions, data breaches, and even endanger lives by compromising time synchronization essential for patient care in healthcare facilities and scheduling in transportation systems. The reliance on precise timekeeping in these sectors amplifies the risk, making it imperative for affected organizations to assess their exposure to this vulnerability and take swift action to mitigate potential impacts.

Mitigations 

To address this critical vulnerability, organizations should immediately:

  1. Update to the latest firmware version available from MOBATIME.

  2. Limit network exposure of control systems to prevent direct internet access.

  3. Employ firewalls to segregate network master clocks from business networks.

  4. Utilize VPNs for secure remote access, keeping in mind their potential vulnerabilities.

These steps, recommended by CISA and MOBATIME, are crucial for enhancing the security posture of affected systems. Organizations should conduct a comprehensive risk assessment and impact analysis to ensure these mitigations are effectively implemented.

1898 & Co. Response

In response to this advisory, 1898 & CO is actively working to assist clients in identifying and mitigating risks associated with CVE-2024-12286. Our services include conducting detailed risk assessments, providing guidance on firmware updates, and implementing network security enhancements tailored to our clients' specific operational environments. We are also collaborating with industry partners and participating in cybersecurity forums to stay ahead of emerging threats. Through these efforts, we aim to support our clients in maintaining robust cybersecurity defenses in an increasingly interconnected and vulnerable digital landscape

Sources 

  1. CISA Advisory on MOBATIME Network Master Clock Vulnerability -https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/ics-advisories/icsa-24-345-01 
  2. MOBATIME Firmware Update Resources - https://www.mobatime.com/support/resources/ 
  3. Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) Guide - https://www.first.org/cvss/v3.1/user-guide 
  4. Cybersecurity Best Practices for ICS Systems - https://www.cisa.gov/resources-tools/resources/ics-recommended-practices