CVE-2016-2275 in VESP211-EU
Summary
by MITRE
The web interface on Advantech/B+B SmartWorx VESP211-EU devices with firmware 1.7.2 and VESP211-232 devices with firmware 1.5.1 and 1.7.2 relies on the client to implement access control, which allows remote attackers to perform administrative actions via modified JavaScript code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/06/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-2275 affects Advantech/B+B SmartWorx VESP211-EU and VESP211-232 industrial devices running specific firmware versions, representing a critical access control flaw that undermines the security posture of these networked industrial systems. These devices operate within industrial environments where unauthorized access can lead to significant operational disruptions and safety risks. The vulnerability stems from a design flaw in the web interface implementation where the device fails to enforce proper server-side access controls, instead delegating this responsibility entirely to the client-side browser environment. This architectural weakness creates a fundamental security gap that allows attackers to bypass intended authentication mechanisms and execute administrative functions without proper authorization.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of JavaScript code within the web interface to alter the behavior of administrative functions. Attackers can exploit this by intercepting web traffic and modifying JavaScript code that controls access to administrative features, effectively allowing them to perform privileged actions such as changing device configurations, modifying user accounts, or accessing sensitive operational data. The flaw specifically relates to the device's reliance on client-side validation rather than implementing robust server-side access control mechanisms, which is a well-documented pattern that aligns with CWE-602, Client-Side Enforcement of Server-Side Security. This weakness enables what is essentially a man-in-the-middle attack scenario where the attacker can manipulate the client-side code to gain elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it creates opportunities for attackers to compromise entire industrial control systems that rely on these devices for network connectivity and management. In industrial environments, these devices often serve as gateways to broader network infrastructures, making them attractive targets for attackers seeking lateral movement and persistent access. The vulnerability allows for remote exploitation without requiring physical access to the device, which significantly increases the attack surface and potential impact. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1071.001 for Application Layer Protocol: Web Protocols and T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, demonstrating how attackers can leverage web-based interfaces to escalate privileges and maintain persistent access to critical infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of server-side access control enforcement and proper input validation mechanisms. Device administrators should implement network segmentation to limit access to these management interfaces and deploy network monitoring solutions to detect anomalous JavaScript modifications or unauthorized administrative activities. Firmware updates from Advantech/B+B SmartWorx are essential to address the root cause of this vulnerability, though organizations should also consider implementing additional security controls such as web application firewalls and regular security assessments of industrial control systems. The vulnerability underscores the importance of defense-in-depth strategies in industrial environments where traditional cybersecurity approaches may not be sufficient to protect against sophisticated attacks targeting operational technology infrastructure.