CVE-2014-0328 in Sailor 6300
Summary
by MITRE
The thraneLINK protocol implementation on Cobham devices does not verify firmware signatures, which allows attackers to execute arbitrary code by leveraging physical access or terminal access to send an SNMP request and a TFTP response.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/18/2024
The thraneLINK protocol implementation on Cobham devices presents a critical security vulnerability that stems from the absence of firmware signature verification mechanisms. This flaw exists within the device's firmware update process where the system fails to authenticate the integrity and origin of firmware images before installation. The vulnerability specifically affects Cobham communication devices that utilize the thraneLINK protocol for network management and device configuration. Attackers can exploit this weakness by leveraging either physical access to the device or terminal access to establish a connection that facilitates the delivery of malicious firmware components.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a combination of SNMP request manipulation and TFTP response injection techniques. When an attacker gains access to the device's terminal interface or physical console, they can craft specific SNMP requests that trigger the device to initiate a TFTP transfer operation. The malicious TFTP response contains a modified firmware image that bypasses the normal verification procedures. This attack vector operates at the network protocol level and demonstrates a fundamental failure in the device's security architecture. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows for arbitrary code execution without requiring sophisticated network reconnaissance or advanced exploitation techniques, making it accessible to attackers with moderate technical capabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data exfiltration. Once successful, attackers can gain root-level access to the device, enabling them to modify system configurations, install persistent backdoors, or establish command and control channels. The vulnerability affects the integrity of the device's operational environment and can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive communication networks. Organizations relying on Cobham devices for critical communications may face significant security risks including potential service disruption, data interception, or unauthorized access to communication channels that could compromise mission-critical operations.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-1037 which describes insufficient verification of the integrity of components, and specifically relates to CWE-327 which addresses weak cryptographic algorithms. The attack pattern follows the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter and T1078.004 for valid accounts. Mitigation strategies should include implementing proper firmware signature verification mechanisms, restricting physical and terminal access to devices, and deploying network monitoring to detect anomalous SNMP and TFTP traffic patterns. Organizations should also consider network segmentation, regular firmware updates, and enhanced access controls to prevent unauthorized modifications. The vulnerability underscores the importance of cryptographic integrity checks in embedded systems and highlights the need for robust security measures in industrial communication devices that may be targeted by sophisticated adversaries seeking persistent access to critical infrastructure.