1. Introduction
The VISAM Automation Base (VBASE) Web-Remote Detection vulnerability identifies a web interface running on a remote host that provides access to an OT application. This is concerning because it creates a potential entry point for attackers into operational technology systems. Affected systems are typically those using the VISAM Automation Base software, often found in industrial control environments. A successful exploit could compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the VBASE system.
2. Technical Explanation
The vulnerability stems from the presence of a running web-based remote interface to VBASE. This service allows remote administration but may lack sufficient security controls. An attacker with network access could potentially exploit weaknesses in this interface to gain control of the underlying system or application. There is no known CVE associated with this specific detection, however it highlights a general risk of exposed web interfaces on OT systems. A realistic example would be an attacker using default credentials or exploiting a cross-site scripting vulnerability within the VBASE web interface to execute arbitrary commands on the host server.
- Root cause: The VISAM Automation Base (VBASE) Web-Remote service is running and accessible, potentially without adequate authentication or input validation.
- Exploit mechanism: An attacker could attempt to access the web interface using common credentials, exploit known vulnerabilities in the web application framework, or leverage cross-site scripting attacks.
- Scope: Systems running VISAM Automation Base (VBASE) software with the Web-Remote service enabled are affected. Specific versions were not provided.
3. Detection and Assessment
Confirming vulnerability involves checking for the presence of the VBASE web interface. A quick check is to attempt access via a web browser. A thorough method involves network scanning to identify open ports associated with web services on the remote host.
- Quick checks: Attempt to access the web interface using a web browser at the known or default IP address and port of the VBASE system.
- Scanning: Nessus vulnerability scan ID 7e438f89 can identify this issue as an example. Other scanners may have similar signatures for exposed web services.
- Logs and evidence: Check application logs for access attempts to the VBASE Web-Remote service, looking for unusual activity or failed login attempts. Specific log paths were not provided.
telnet <target_ip> 8080 # Example command placeholder: Attempt connection on default port
4. Solution / Remediation Steps
Fixing this issue requires securing or disabling the VBASE Web-Remote service. These steps aim to reduce exposure and prevent unauthorized access.
4.1 Preparation
- Ensure you have appropriate credentials for accessing and modifying the VBASE configuration. A roll back plan involves restoring from the pre-change backup or snapshot.
- A change window may be required depending on the criticality of the system, with approval from the OT security team.
4.2 Implementation
- Step 1: Disable the VBASE Web-Remote service if it is not actively needed.
- Step 2: If the service must remain enabled, configure strong authentication (e.g., multi-factor authentication) and restrict access to authorized IP addresses only.
- Step 3: Review the web interface configuration for any default credentials or insecure settings and change them accordingly.
4.3 Config or Code Example
Before
#Example configuration file showing default settings
web_remote:
enabled: true
authentication: basic
allow_from: 0.0.0.0/0
After
#Example configuration file showing secure settings
web_remote:
enabled: false #Or
authentication: mfa
allow_from: <authorized_ip_range>/24
4.4 Security Practices Relevant to This Vulnerability
Several security practices can help prevent this issue. Least privilege reduces the impact of a successful attack, while input validation prevents malicious data from being processed. Safe defaults and patch cadence ensure systems are not exposed due to misconfiguration or known vulnerabilities.
- Practice 1: Implement least privilege principles to limit access to sensitive resources like the VBASE Web-Remote service.
- Practice 2: Enforce input validation on all user-supplied data to prevent cross-site scripting and other injection attacks.
4.5 Automation (Optional)
#Example PowerShell script to disable the service (requires appropriate permissions)
Stop-Service -Name "VISAMAutomationBaseWebRemote" -Force
Set-Service -Name "VISAMAutomationBaseWebRemote" -StartupType Disabled
5. Verification / Validation
Confirming the fix involves verifying that the VBASE Web-Remote service is disabled or properly secured. This includes checking its status and attempting to access it with unauthorized credentials.
- Post-fix check: Run `netstat -an | findstr <port>` (replace <port> with the VBASE web interface port) and confirm no process is listening on that port.
- Re-test: Re-run the Nessus scan ID 7e438f89 to verify the vulnerability is no longer detected.
- Monitoring: Monitor application logs for any attempts to access the disabled or secured VBASE Web-Remote service, flagging unusual activity.
netstat -an | findstr 8080 # Post-fix command and expected output (no listening processes)
6. Preventive Measures and Monitoring
Preventive measures include updating security baselines and incorporating checks into CI/CD pipelines. A sensible patch or config review cycle helps to address vulnerabilities promptly. For example, regularly update the CIS benchmark for OT systems.
- Baselines: Update your security baseline or policy to reflect the requirement of disabling unnecessary web interfaces on OT systems.
- Asset and patch process: Implement a regular patch and configuration review cycle for all OT assets, including the VISAM Automation Base software.
7. Risks, Side Effects, and Roll Back
- Risk or side effect 1: Disabling the web interface may require alternative methods for remote administration, such as SSH or console access.
- Risk or side effect 2: Incorrectly configuring authentication could lock out legitimate users.
- Roll back: Step 1: Re-enable the VBASE Web-Remote service using `Set-Service -Name “VISAMAutomationBaseWebRemote” -StartupType Automatic`. Step 2: Restore the original configuration file if necessary.
8. References and Resources
- Vendor advisory or bulletin: Updated on October 26, 2025