title: Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk Services Platform Protection Mechanism Failure
description: Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk Services Platform v6.11 and earlier, if FactoryTalk Security is enabled and deployed contains a vulnerability that may allow a remote, authenticated attacker to bypass FactoryTalk Security policies based on the computer name. If successfully exploited, this may allow an attacker to have the same privileges as if they were logged on to the client machine.
problem types: CVE-693 Protection Mechanism Failure
affected:
{
product: FactoryTalk Services Platform
vendor: Rockwell Automation
versions:
lessThan: 6.11, status: affected, version: unspecified, versionType: custom
}
metrics:
cvssV3_1: [
attackComplexity: HIGH
attackVector: NETWORK
availabilityImpact: HIGH
baseScore: 8.5
baseSeverity: HIGH
confidentialityImpact: HIGH
integrityImpact: HIGH
privilegesRequired: LOW
scope: CHANGED
userInteraction: NONE
vectorString: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:H/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:H/I:H/A:H
version: 3.1
]
solutions: Rockwell Automation encourages those using the affected software to update to FactoryTalk Services Platform v6.20 or later to address the associated risk.
Please see the Rockwell Automation publication regarding this issue for more information.
workarounds: Users who are unable to update are directed towards risk mitigation strategies provided below and are encouraged, when possible, to combine these tactics with the general security guidelines to employ multiple strategies simultaneously.
When possible, do not utilize remote desktop connections.
Use Microsoft Event Logger or similar event logging application to monitor atypical remote desktop connections and disconnections. Information on Setting up Windows Event Logs is available at Knowledgebase Article QA5965
Rockwell Automation recommends the following general security guidelines:
Run all software as User, not as an Administrator, to minimize the impact of malicious code on the infected system.
Ensure the least-privilege user principle is followed, and user/service account access to shared resources (such as a database) is only granted with a minimum number of rights as needed.
When remote access is required, use secure methods, such as virtual private networks (VPNs), recognizing that VPNs may have vulnerabilities and should be updated to the most current version available. Also recognize VPN is only as secure as the connected devices.
Please see the Rockwell Automation publication regarding this issue for more information.
