CVE-2012-3024 in Niagra Ax Framework
Summary
by MITRE
Tridium Niagara AX Framework through 3.6 uses predictable values for (1) session IDs and (2) keys, which might allow remote attackers to bypass authentication via a brute-force attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/04/2017
The Tridium Niagara AX Framework version 3.6 and earlier contains a critical security vulnerability that stems from the use of predictable cryptographic values in session management and key generation processes. This vulnerability exposes the system to remote authentication bypass attacks through brute-force methodologies, fundamentally compromising the integrity of the framework's access control mechanisms. The predictable nature of session identifiers and cryptographic keys creates a significant attack surface that malicious actors can exploit without requiring extensive computational resources or specialized tools.
The technical flaw resides in the implementation of random number generation algorithms within the framework's authentication subsystem. When session identifiers and cryptographic keys are generated using predictable sequences rather than cryptographically secure random number generators, attackers can accurately guess valid session tokens or key values. This weakness directly violates fundamental security principles outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and aligns with CWE-330, which addresses the use of insufficiently random values in security-critical contexts. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited remotely, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where the framework is exposed to external threats.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it can enable attackers to establish persistent sessions within the Niagara AX Framework environment. Once an attacker successfully bypasses authentication, they can potentially access sensitive operational data, modify system configurations, or even disrupt critical infrastructure operations managed by the framework. The vulnerability affects organizations that rely on Niagara AX for building automation and control systems, where unauthorized access could lead to significant operational disruptions and security breaches. This weakness also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1110.003, which covers credential stuffing and brute force attacks, demonstrating how predictable values can be systematically exploited to gain unauthorized access.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including upgrading to versions of the Niagara AX Framework that address this vulnerability, implementing additional authentication layers such as multi-factor authentication, and monitoring for suspicious authentication patterns. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit the attack surface, while regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other components of the system. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper random number generation in security-sensitive applications and the necessity of adhering to established security standards and best practices for cryptographic implementation.