Is CVE-2016-8368 actively exploited?

No active exploitation of CVE-2016-8368 has been confirmed so far. Continue monitoring, as exploit status can change.

Can CVE-2016-8368 be exploited remotely?

Yes. CVE-2016-8368 is exploitable remotely over the network (CVSS attack vector: Network).

What is the CVSS score of CVE-2016-8368?

CVE-2016-8368 has a CVSS score of 8.6 (HIGH).

HOME VULNERABILITIESCVE-2016-8368

HIGH

CVE-2016-8368

CWE-662Published: February 13, 2017· Updated: Jun 17, 2026

8.6

CVSS v3.1

Official Description

An issue was discovered in Mitsubishi Electric Automation MELSEC-Q series Ethernet interface modules QJ71E71-100, all versions, QJ71E71-B5, all versions, and QJ71E71-B2, all versions. The affected Ethernet interface module is connected to a MELSEC-Q PLC, which may allow a remote attacker to connect to the PLC via Port 5002/TCP and cause a denial of service, requiring the PLC to be reset to resume operation. This is caused by an Unrestricted Externally Accessible Lock.

NVD Source

Technical Analysis

CVE-2016-8368 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.

The vulnerability requires no privileges and no user interaction, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns and worm-like propagation.

A successful exploit results in availability disruption (denial of service), with a CVSS base score of 8.6.

The vulnerability has a "Changed" scope, meaning successful exploitation can impact components beyond the vulnerable component itself — such as the host operating system or adjacent services.