CVE-2012-3013 in WAGO
Summary
by MITRE
WAGO I/O System 758 model 758-870, 758-874, 758-875, and 758-876 Industrial PC (IPC) devices have default passwords for unspecified Web Based Management accounts, which makes it easier for remote attackers to obtain administrative access via a TCP session.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/23/2018
The WAGO I/O System 758 series industrial PCs represent critical components in industrial automation environments where security is paramount for operational continuity and safety. These devices, specifically models 758-870, 758-874, 758-875, and 758-876, serve as embedded computing platforms that manage industrial processes through their web-based management interfaces. The vulnerability identified in CVE-2012-3013 stems from the implementation of default authentication credentials that remain unchanged in production deployments, creating a significant security weakness in the industrial control systems landscape.
This vulnerability manifests through the use of hardcoded default passwords for web-based management accounts that are accessible over TCP sessions. The flaw allows remote attackers to gain administrative access to these industrial devices without requiring any specialized tools or complex exploitation techniques. The default credential issue creates a persistent security risk because these passwords are typically well-known within the cybersecurity community and are often included in default configuration guides or public documentation. The TCP session accessibility means that attackers can exploit this vulnerability from remote locations without physical access to the device.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as these industrial PCs control critical infrastructure components in manufacturing and process control environments. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can manipulate industrial processes, alter operational parameters, or potentially cause system failures that could result in production downtime, safety hazards, or financial losses. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-798, which specifically addresses the use of hard-coded credentials, and represents a fundamental security misconfiguration that undermines the integrity of industrial control systems. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that these devices often operate in isolated networks but may still be accessible through various network connections or remote access mechanisms.
The exploitation of this vulnerability follows patterns consistent with the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically mapping to techniques involving credential access and lateral movement within industrial control system environments. The default password issue enables initial access that can then be leveraged for further reconnaissance and escalation of privileges within the industrial network. Organizations deploying these devices face significant risk because the vulnerability exists at the foundational level of authentication, making it difficult to detect and remediate without comprehensive network auditing. The lack of proper credential management in these industrial devices represents a critical gap in the security posture of industrial automation systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of credential management practices including mandatory password changes upon device deployment, implementation of strong authentication policies, and regular security assessments of industrial control system components. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit exposure of these devices to unauthorized network access. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following industrial security standards such as IEC 62443 and NIST SP 800-82, which emphasize the need for secure configuration management in industrial environments. Regular security updates and patch management procedures should be established to address similar issues in other industrial control system components, as default credential vulnerabilities remain a persistent threat in industrial automation environments.