Hitachi Energy has identified significant security vulnerabilities within its MACH SCM systems, impacting versions from 4.0 to 4.38. These vulnerabilities, specifically CVE-2024-0400 and CVE-2024-2097, concern the improper control of code generation and the neutralization of directives in dynamically evaluated code. Both vulnerabilities allow authenticated malicious clients to execute arbitrary remote code (RCE) on the SCM server, bypassing standard validation processes. These flaws are particularly critical because they enable attackers to perform unauthorized actions that could severely compromise system integrity and data security.
The vulnerabilities have been rigorously assessed, with CVE-2024-0400 receiving a CVSS v4 score of 8.9 and CVE-2024-2097 scoring 8.8. These high scores indicate a significant risk due to the potential for remote exploitation with relatively low user interaction and high privileges required by the attacker. The identified risks underscore the potential for severe impact on the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems, which are widely used across the global energy sector.
In response to these threats, Hitachi Energy has taken proactive steps to mitigate the risks associated with these vulnerabilities. For CVE-2024-2097, users of MACH SCM versions 4.6 to 4.38 are advised to upgrade to version 4.38.1. However, for CVE-2024-0400, which affects earlier versions (4.0 to 4.5.x), Hitachi recommends implementing general security measures such as enhanced firewall configurations and physical protections until updates can be applied. These measures are critical in protecting the process control networks from potential external attacks.
Additionally, Hitachi Energy emphasizes the importance of adhering to recommended security practices to further safeguard vulnerable systems. This includes preventing direct internet connections to control systems, isolating process control networks from other networks through strict firewall use, and ensuring that all portable computing devices and removable storage media are thoroughly scanned for viruses before connecting to control systems. These strategies are essential for maintaining the security and operational integrity of critical infrastructure within the energy sector, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance and proactive cybersecurity measures in the face of evolving threats.
