CVE-2016-1206 in WN-GDN-R3
Summary
by MITRE
The WPS implementation on I-O DATA DEVICE WN-GDN/R3, WN-GDN/R3-C, WN-GDN/R3-S, and WN-GDN/R3-U devices does not limit PIN guesses, which allows remote attackers to obtain network access via a brute-force attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/26/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-1206 affects the wireless protected setup implementation on several I-O DATA DEVICE wireless network adapters including the WN-GDN/R3 series models. This flaw represents a critical security weakness in the device's wireless security protocol handling that directly impacts network access control mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically resides in the WPS PIN validation process where the device fails to implement proper account lockout or rate limiting measures during authentication attempts.
The technical implementation flaw stems from the absence of any form of brute-force protection within the WPS PIN validation routine. When a wireless device attempts to connect to a network protected by WPS, the system should enforce strict limitations on the number of PIN guess attempts to prevent automated attack vectors. However, these I-O DATA DEVICE models allow unlimited PIN guessing attempts, creating an environment where attackers can systematically try all possible 8-digit PIN combinations without encountering any blocking mechanisms. This design oversight directly violates security best practices for authentication systems and creates a significant attack surface for malicious actors.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it enables remote attackers to gain unauthorized network access through automated brute-force attacks. Given that WPS PINs consist of 8 digits, there are 100 million possible combinations, but the attack can be significantly reduced through various techniques such as dictionary attacks or exploiting known PIN patterns. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to compromise network security without requiring physical access or advanced technical skills, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise and residential environments. The vulnerability affects the fundamental security model of WPS, which was designed to simplify wireless network configuration but has historically been plagued by security weaknesses.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-307, which addresses improper restriction of repeated accesses to protected resources, and specifically relates to the lack of account lockout mechanisms during authentication processes. The attack vector falls under the ATT&CK framework category of Credential Access with techniques such as Brute Force and Credential Dumping. Organizations using these affected devices face significant risk of unauthorized network access, potential data breaches, and lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of implementing proper rate limiting and account lockout mechanisms in all authentication systems, particularly those handling wireless network access.
The recommended mitigation strategies include disabling WPS functionality entirely on affected devices, implementing strong network segmentation measures, and deploying additional security controls such as intrusion detection systems. Network administrators should also consider replacing the vulnerable hardware with devices that properly implement WPS security measures or upgrade to more secure wireless security protocols. Regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other network devices and ensure comprehensive protection against automated attack vectors. The vulnerability highlights the necessity of thorough security testing of wireless network equipment and the importance of adhering to established security standards throughout the device lifecycle.