CVE-2015-6467 in WebAccess
Summary
by MITRE
Advantech WebAccess before 8.1 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via vectors involving a browser plugin.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/23/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-6467 represents a critical remote code execution flaw affecting Advantech WebAccess versions prior to 8.1. This vulnerability specifically targets the browser plugin component of the WebAccess platform, which is commonly used in industrial automation and monitoring systems. The issue arises from insufficient input validation and improper handling of user-supplied data within the plugin's processing logic, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The vulnerability's impact is particularly severe in industrial control environments where WebAccess is deployed for SCADA systems, building automation, and other critical infrastructure applications.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through carefully crafted inputs that are processed by the vulnerable browser plugin. Attackers can leverage this flaw by constructing malicious web content or delivering specially crafted payloads that trigger the vulnerable plugin code path. The vulnerability stems from improper sanitization of input parameters that are passed to the plugin, allowing attackers to manipulate the execution flow and inject malicious code that executes with the privileges of the browser plugin process. This type of vulnerability is classified under CWE-79 as a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) variant that can be escalated to remote code execution, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. The flaw essentially creates a sandbox escape condition where the browser plugin's execution context can be manipulated to execute arbitrary commands on the underlying system.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-6467 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable full system compromise within industrial environments where WebAccess is deployed. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain persistent access to critical infrastructure systems, potentially leading to operational disruptions, data breaches, or even physical system damage in scenarios involving industrial control systems. The vulnerability affects organizations across multiple sectors including manufacturing, energy, water treatment, and other industrial automation environments where Advantech WebAccess is utilized for remote monitoring and control. Organizations that have not upgraded to WebAccess 8.1 or later versions remain at significant risk, particularly when their systems are accessible from untrusted networks or when users browse to malicious websites that trigger the exploit.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily focus on immediate patching and system hardening measures. Organizations should prioritize upgrading to Advantech WebAccess 8.1 or later versions that contain the necessary security fixes for this vulnerability. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of WebAccess systems to untrusted networks, while disabling unnecessary browser plugin functionality where possible. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious plugin activity and anomalous network behavior that may indicate exploitation attempts. Additional protective measures include implementing web application firewalls, disabling ActiveX controls in browsers, and conducting regular security assessments of industrial control system environments. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date industrial control system software and following security best practices for protecting critical infrastructure from remote exploitation attempts.