Wednesday, August 03, 2011

Infrastructure Security - Siemens PLC controllers vunerable to hack

One of the devices which helps control everything complicated systems run on is the PLC controller.

(A programmable controller is a digital computer used for automation of electromechanical processes, such as control of machinery on factory assembly lines, amusement rides, in many industries)

A security program exists with the pre 2009 Siemens controller according to this security experts report. He say among other problems is a hard coded back door password in all the controllers that can be used to change their programming.

If you run an industry that may be a target for terrorist hackers, you need to read this story.

...this is the same exposure that has been used to attack nuclear plants and water treatment facilities.


Update - Siemens says it is issuing a fix for some of the security holes identified....read about it here.

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