CVE-2012-1806 in H0-ECOM
Summary
by MITRE
The ECOM Ethernet module in Koyo H0-ECOM, H0-ECOM100, H2-ECOM, H2-ECOM-F, H2-ECOM100, H4-ECOM, H4-ECOM-F, and H4-ECOM100 supports a maximum password length of 8 bytes, which makes it easier for remote attackers to obtain access via a brute-force attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/01/2021
The CVE-2012-1806 vulnerability affects the ECOM Ethernet module in several Koyo series programmable controllers including H0-ECOM, H0-ECOM100, H2-ECOM, H2-ECOM-F, H2-ECOM100, H4-ECOM, H4-ECOM-F, and H4-ECOM100 models. This weakness represents a significant security flaw in industrial control systems that directly impacts the authentication mechanisms of these devices. The vulnerability stems from an insufficient password length restriction that limits user credentials to a maximum of eight bytes, creating a substantial attack surface for malicious actors seeking unauthorized access to industrial automation environments.
The technical flaw manifests in the authentication subsystem where the ECOM Ethernet module enforces a maximum password length restriction of 8 bytes, which translates to 8 characters or 64 bits of password entropy. This limitation severely constrains the complexity and strength of user credentials that can be configured, making the authentication process vulnerable to brute-force attacks. The restricted password length significantly reduces the search space for potential attackers, as cryptographic analysis demonstrates that passwords shorter than 12 characters are susceptible to rapid enumeration attacks. This vulnerability directly aligns with CWE-521 Weak Password Requirements, which classifies inadequate password policies as a critical security weakness in authentication systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass potential compromise of entire industrial control systems. Remote attackers can leverage the reduced password entropy to conduct systematic brute-force attacks against the authentication interface, potentially gaining administrative privileges and full control over the affected programmable controllers. The implications are particularly severe in industrial environments where these controllers manage critical infrastructure operations, as unauthorized access could lead to operational disruptions, safety hazards, or even physical damage to manufacturing processes. This vulnerability creates a persistent risk that remains active as long as the affected devices are operational and accessible over the network.
Security professionals should implement immediate mitigations to address this vulnerability including enforcing minimum password length requirements of at least 12 characters, implementing account lockout mechanisms after failed authentication attempts, and restricting network access to these devices through firewalls and network segmentation. The implementation of multi-factor authentication protocols would provide additional defense layers against unauthorized access attempts. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive inventory assessments to identify all affected devices and ensure proper patching or replacement of vulnerable systems. According to ATT&CK framework technique T1110.003, adversaries can leverage weak passwords through credential access methods, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where network access is not properly restricted. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of robust authentication policies in industrial control systems and highlights the need for security considerations during the design and deployment phases of industrial automation infrastructure.