CVE-2022-42785 is a critical vulnerability affecting Wiesemann & Theis Com-Server LC devices, specifically version 1.0. The flaw is categorized under CWE-306, indicating a missing authentication for a critical function. This vulnerability allows an unauthenticated remote attacker to bypass authentication by crafting a specially modified HTTP GET request. Essentially, the Com-Server LC does not properly enforce authentication controls on certain functions, enabling attackers to log in without any password or credentials. Given the nature of the Com-Server LC as an industrial communication device used for remote management and control of industrial equipment, unauthorized access could lead to full compromise of the device. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 9.8 reflects the critical severity, with attack vector being network (AV:N), requiring no privileges (PR:N), no user interaction (UI:N), and impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability to a high degree (C:H/I:H/A:H). The scope is unchanged (S:U), meaning the vulnerability affects the vulnerable component itself. No patches have been published yet, and no known exploits are reported in the wild, but the ease of exploitation and critical impact make this a significant threat. The vulnerability was published on November 10, 2022, and was assigned by CERTVDE, with enrichment from CISA. Wiesemann & Theis Com-Server LC devices are typically used in industrial automation and building management systems, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in operational technology (OT) environments where security controls are often less mature than in IT environments. Attackers exploiting this flaw could gain unauthorized control over industrial processes, potentially causing physical damage, data theft, or disruption of critical infrastructure operations.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2022-42785 is substantial, especially those operating in industrial sectors such as manufacturing, energy, utilities, and building automation. Unauthorized access to Com-Server LC devices could allow attackers to manipulate industrial control systems, leading to operational disruptions, safety hazards, and potential physical damage to equipment. Confidentiality breaches could expose sensitive operational data or intellectual property. Integrity violations could result in unauthorized changes to control commands or configurations, potentially causing unsafe conditions or production errors. Availability impacts could lead to downtime of critical industrial processes, affecting supply chains and service delivery. Given the criticality of infrastructure in Europe and the increasing digitization of industrial environments, exploitation of this vulnerability could have cascading effects on economic activities and public safety. Additionally, regulatory frameworks such as NIS2 Directive emphasize the protection of critical infrastructure, so organizations failing to address this vulnerability may face compliance risks and penalties. The lack of authentication also increases the risk of automated or mass exploitation attempts, which could amplify the impact across multiple organizations simultaneously.

1. Immediate Network Segmentation: Isolate Com-Server LC devices from general IT networks and restrict access to trusted management networks only. 2. Implement Access Control Lists (ACLs) and Firewall Rules: Block all unauthorized inbound traffic to the Com-Server LC devices, allowing only known management IP addresses and protocols. 3. Monitor Network Traffic: Deploy intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS) to detect anomalous HTTP GET requests targeting Com-Server LC devices. 4. Vendor Coordination: Engage with Wiesemann & Theis for official patches or firmware updates addressing this vulnerability. Until patches are available, consider temporary device decommissioning or replacement if feasible. 5. Use VPN or Secure Tunnels: If remote access is necessary, enforce VPN or secure tunnels with strong authentication to prevent direct exposure of Com-Server LC devices to the internet. 6. Regular Auditing and Logging: Enable and review detailed logs on Com-Server LC devices to detect unauthorized access attempts. 7. Incident Response Preparedness: Develop and test incident response plans specific to OT environments to quickly contain and remediate any exploitation attempts. 8. Asset Inventory and Risk Assessment: Maintain an up-to-date inventory of all Com-Server LC devices and assess their criticality to prioritize mitigation efforts. 9. Disable Unused Services: Where possible, disable HTTP or management interfaces if not required or replace them with more secure alternatives. 10. Employee Training: Educate operational technology personnel about the risks of this vulnerability and best practices for secure device management.