CVE-2008-6816 in Network Shutdown Module
Summary
by MITRE
Eaton MGEOPS Network Shutdown Module before 3.10 Build 13 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by adding a custom action to the MGE frontend via pane_actionbutton.php, and then executing this action via exec_action.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/20/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-6816 affects the Eaton MGEOPS Network Shutdown Module version 3.10 Build 13 and earlier, presenting a critical remote code execution flaw that enables attackers to gain unauthorized system control. This vulnerability resides in the web-based management interface of the network shutdown module, specifically within the pane_actionbutton.php component which handles user interface elements for custom actions. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly filter user-supplied data before processing it within the system's execution pipeline.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the insecure handling of user-defined actions within the MGEOPS framework. When an attacker successfully adds a custom action through the pane_actionbutton.php interface, the system stores this action without sufficient validation of its content or origin. Subsequently, when the exec_action.php script processes this stored action, it executes the malicious code directly without proper sanitization or execution context restrictions. This represents a classic command injection vulnerability where user input flows directly into system execution functions, creating a path for arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-94 categories, specifically addressing improper input validation and code injection flaws that enable remote attackers to execute malicious commands on the target system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching, as it provides remote attackers with complete system compromise capabilities. An attacker can execute arbitrary commands with the privileges of the web application user, potentially leading to full system takeover, data exfiltration, or lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The affected Eaton MGEOPS Network Shutdown Module serves as a critical component in network management and power distribution systems, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where these devices control essential infrastructure. The remote nature of the attack means that exploitation can occur from any location without requiring physical access to the device, significantly expanding the attack surface and threat vector.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-6816 should prioritize immediate implementation of the vendor-provided security patch or upgrade to version 3.10 Build 13 or later. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to restrict access to the MGEOPS management interface, limiting exposure to authorized personnel only. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary web interfaces, implementing strict input validation at all entry points, and monitoring for suspicious activity patterns in the system logs. Security professionals should consider deploying web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests targeting the vulnerable PHP scripts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices, particularly regarding input validation and output encoding, as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and MITRE ATT&CK framework categories related to command injection and privilege escalation techniques. Organizations should also implement regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses in their industrial control systems and network infrastructure components.