CVE-2016-0879 in EDR-G903
Summary
by MITRE
Moxa Secure Router EDR-G903 devices before 3.4.12 do not delete copies of configuration and log files after completing the import function, which allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information by requesting these files at an unspecified URL.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/22/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-0879 affects Moxa Secure Router EDR-G903 devices running firmware versions prior to 3.4.12. This issue represents a critical information disclosure flaw that stems from improper file handling during the import process. The device fails to securely remove temporary copies of configuration and log files after completing import operations, creating persistent exposure windows where sensitive data remains accessible to unauthorized parties. The vulnerability manifests when remote attackers can access these residual files through unspecified URLs, potentially gaining access to administrative configurations, system logs, and other sensitive operational data that should be protected.
This security weakness falls under the category of improper file handling and information disclosure, aligning with CWE-200 (Information Exposure) and CWE-22 (Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory). The flaw demonstrates poor input validation and inadequate temporary file management practices that violate fundamental security principles for network devices. The persistence of these files after import completion creates an attack surface that directly contradicts the principle of least privilege and secure by default configurations. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data exposure as it can provide attackers with insights into network topology, administrative credentials, system configurations, and operational patterns that could facilitate further exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for organizations relying on Moxa EDR-G903 devices for network security. Attackers can leverage this flaw to obtain detailed system information that may reveal network architecture, user access patterns, and administrative procedures. The ability to access configuration files could expose sensitive parameters such as network settings, user credentials, and security policies that would otherwise remain protected. Log files may contain information about system events, failed access attempts, and operational anomalies that could be used to craft more sophisticated attacks or identify system weaknesses. This vulnerability essentially undermines the device's security posture by creating persistent data leaks that persist across system operations.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate firmware updates to version 3.4.12 or later, which addresses the improper file cleanup behavior. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to these devices, restrict administrative access through firewalls, and establish monitoring for unusual file access patterns. The remediation process must include thorough review of device configurations to ensure no sensitive data remains accessible through alternative access points. Additionally, security teams should conduct regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar file handling issues in other network infrastructure components. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper temporary file management and secure configuration practices in network security devices, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security testing throughout the device lifecycle. This issue serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper resource cleanup in embedded systems and network appliances.