CVE-2012-4899 in KingView
Summary
by MITRE
WellinTech KingView 6.5.3 and earlier uses a weak password-hashing algorithm, which makes it easier for local users to discover credentials by reading an unspecified file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/22/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-4899 affects WellinTech KingView versions 6.5.3 and earlier, representing a critical weakness in the system's authentication mechanism. This issue stems from the use of a weak password-hashing algorithm that significantly undermines the security posture of the application. The vulnerability allows local users to easily obtain credentials by accessing an unspecified file, creating a serious privilege escalation risk within the system.
The technical flaw lies in the implementation of password hashing mechanisms within the KingView application. When users create or modify passwords, the system employs an inadequate hashing algorithm that fails to provide sufficient cryptographic strength to protect credentials. This weakness enables attackers to reverse-engineer or brute-force password hashes using readily available tools and techniques. The vulnerability specifically targets the local user attack surface, meaning that an attacker must already have access to the system to exploit this weakness, but once achieved, it provides a pathway for credential compromise.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations utilizing WellinTech KingView for industrial control systems or SCADA environments. Local credential compromise can lead to unauthorized access to critical system functions, potentially enabling attackers to manipulate industrial processes, access sensitive operational data, or escalate privileges to administrative levels. The vulnerability's impact is particularly concerning in industrial settings where KingView is commonly deployed for monitoring and control of manufacturing processes, power generation, or other critical infrastructure operations.
The weakness aligns with CWE-326, which specifically addresses the use of weak encryption algorithms and improper cryptographic practices in authentication systems. This vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1566, which covers credential harvesting through various methods including the exploitation of weak password storage mechanisms. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to the latest version of KingView that addresses this vulnerability, implementing additional access controls to limit local system access, and conducting thorough security assessments of all industrial control systems. The remediation process should include rehashing all existing passwords using strong cryptographic algorithms and implementing proper access logging to detect potential exploitation attempts.