Yes. Siemens warned that three vulnerabilities in specific SIMATIC products could let an unauthenticated attacker send specially prepared traffic to TCP port 102 and cause a denial-of-service condition. The affected device may need to be restarted to recover. This is not a claim that every Siemens PLC is vulnerable: affected products, CVEs and firmware fixes vary by configuration.
What the Siemens PLC vulnerabilities do
Siemens ProductCERT advisory SSA-838121 covers CVE-2021-37185, CVE-2021-37204 and CVE-2021-37205. For each, Siemens assigned a CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.5. The advisory describes specially prepared packets sent over TCP port 102 that can cause a denial of service under certain conditions; a restart is required to restore normal operation.
The score reflects network reachability, low attack complexity, no required privileges and no user interaction. It describes assessed severity, not evidence that an attack has occurred at a particular facility.
SecurityWeek’s February 10, 2022 report attributed the vulnerabilities to the OMS+ communication protocol stack and said exploitation could be possible if a PLC were exposed through misconfiguration. That is reporting about the researcher’s findings, not wording from Siemens’ advisory. The report does not establish a confirmed attack on an operating plant.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Which Siemens products and versions are covered?
Advisory V1.3 lists multiple SIMATIC product families, but not every configuration is affected by all three CVEs. Match the exact product, configuration and installed firmware against Siemens’ advisory table rather than treating the product family name alone as a vulnerability verdict.
| Product or configuration in advisory V1.3 | Listed update target | Important qualification |
|---|---|---|
| SIMATIC Drive Controller | V2.9.4 or later | Check the advisory table for the specific CVE and affected version. |
| S7-1200 CPU | V4.5.2 or later | Applicability depends on the device and CVE. |
| S7-1500 CPU, including related ET 200 and SIPLUS variants | V2.9.4 or later | Confirm the precise listed variant and firmware. |
| ET 200SP Open Controller CPU 1515SP PC2; S7-1500 Software Controller | V21.9.4 or later for configurations with a listed solution | No fix was planned for the CPU 1515SP PC2 Ready4Linux and CPU 1515SP PC configurations identified in V1.3. |
| S7-PLCSIM Advanced | V4.0 SP1 or later | Use the advisory to verify CVE applicability. |
| TIM 1531 IRC and SIPLUS TIM 1531 IRC | V2.3.6 or later | Check the specific product entry in the advisory. |
These targets are the solutions stated in Siemens advisory V1.3, which Siemens last updated on April 11, 2023. They should not be assumed to be the latest available firmware today. Use Siemens’ current support information for the exact device before planning a change.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
How to assess and reduce exposure
- Identify the exact device and firmware. Record the product designation, hardware/configuration variant and installed firmware version from the device records or approved engineering tools.
- Check the Siemens advisory entry. In SSA-838121, match that configuration to the affected CVE and its listed solution. Do not infer that a product is affected—or fixed—solely from its broad family name.
- Verify current vendor guidance and plan remediation. Siemens recommends updating affected products to the latest versions. Follow the product-specific instructions and your site’s change-control and operational-safety procedures before applying firmware.
- Restrict network access. Siemens recommends protecting device network access with appropriate mechanisms, configuring the environment according to its Industrial Security operational guidelines, and following the product manuals. In practice, review whether untrusted or unnecessary network paths can reach TCP port 102 and limit access to the required systems.
- Plan for recovery. Because Siemens says a restart is needed to restore normal operation after the described denial of service, account for availability and safe restart procedures in incident response and maintenance planning.
Network restrictions are a protective measure, not a substitute for the applicable firmware remediation. SecurityWeek quoted independent ICS security researcher Gao Jian warning that access protection and secure communication, including TLS, do not mitigate these vulnerabilities. Treat that as Jian’s assessment as reported by SecurityWeek, not as a Siemens statement; do not rely on passwords or TLS alone to address the flaws.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Why this is a historical advisory
Siemens published SSA-838121 on February 8, 2022; version V1.3 was last updated April 11, 2023. The version targets above describe that advisory revision, not necessarily the current support status of every device. Before acting now, verify the current Siemens notice and firmware for the precise product and configuration.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
SecurityWeek reported on February 10, 2022 that Siemens had released nine advisories addressing 27 vulnerabilities that week. That broader count is historical context; this article concerns the three CVEs in SSA-838121.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
