CVE-2001-1339 in IPC@CHIP Embedded-Webserver
Summary
by MITRE
Beck IPC GmbH IPC@CHIP telnet service does not delay or disconnect users from the service when bad passwords are entered, which makes it easier for remote attackers to conduct brute force password guessing attacks.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/17/2024
The vulnerability identified in CVE-2001-1339 affects the Beck IPC GmbH IPC@CHIP telnet service, representing a significant security weakness in industrial network devices. This flaw resides in the authentication mechanism of the telnet service implementation, where the system fails to implement proper account lockout or delay mechanisms when invalid credentials are presented during login attempts. The vulnerability specifically impacts the security posture of industrial control systems and embedded devices that rely on telnet for remote administration and management purposes.
The technical flaw manifests as a lack of rate limiting or account lockout functionality within the telnet service authentication process. When an attacker submits incorrect passwords repeatedly, the system does not implement any form of delay mechanism or automatic disconnection, allowing for rapid successive login attempts. This design deficiency creates an environment where automated brute force attacks can proceed unhindered, with each failed attempt immediately followed by the next attempt without any delay or restriction. The vulnerability directly violates fundamental security principles for authentication systems, as it eliminates any barrier to automated credential guessing attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential compromise, as it fundamentally undermines the security of industrial control systems that depend on the IPC@CHIP platform for remote access. Attackers can leverage this weakness to systematically guess passwords through automated tools, potentially gaining unauthorized access to critical industrial processes and control systems. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of industrial networks, as successful exploitation could lead to system compromise, data manipulation, or operational disruption. Organizations using these devices face heightened risk of cyber attacks targeting industrial control systems, particularly in environments where physical security measures may be insufficient.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing proper authentication controls and network segmentation. Organizations should disable the telnet service entirely and implement secure alternatives such as SSH for remote access, as telnet transmits credentials in plaintext and lacks encryption. Network-level protections including firewall rules to restrict access to the telnet service, implementation of intrusion detection systems, and regular monitoring of authentication attempts can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, enforcing strong password policies, implementing account lockout mechanisms, and conducting regular security assessments of industrial control systems aligns with industry best practices and standards. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following security guidelines outlined in frameworks such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to credential access and privilege escalation, highlighting the need for comprehensive security controls in industrial environments.