CVE-2016-4495 in Controls BAC-5051E
Summary
by MITRE
KMC Controls BAC-5051E devices with firmware before E0.2.0.2 allow remote attackers to bypass intended access restrictions and read a configuration file via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/14/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-4495 affects KMC Controls BAC-5051E devices running firmware versions prior to E0.2.0.2, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the device's access control mechanisms. This issue falls under the category of improper access control as classified by CWE-284, where the device fails to properly enforce authorization checks for sensitive configuration data. The affected devices are industrial control systems designed for building automation and control applications, making them potential targets for adversaries seeking to compromise facility management systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from unspecified vectors that allow remote attackers to bypass intended access restrictions and gain unauthorized access to configuration files. This represents a classic privilege escalation scenario where unauthenticated or low-privileged attackers can obtain sensitive information that should only be accessible to authorized administrators. The configuration files likely contain critical system parameters, network settings, user credentials, and operational configurations that could be leveraged for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The unspecified nature of the attack vectors suggests potential weaknesses in authentication mechanisms, input validation, or session management within the device's web interface or network protocols.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it creates a foothold for more sophisticated attacks within industrial control environments. Adversaries could potentially use the leaked configuration data to map network topology, identify system vulnerabilities, or craft targeted attacks against other connected devices. This vulnerability particularly affects building automation and control systems where the BAC-5051E devices operate as networked controllers for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and other critical building systems. The exposure of configuration files could enable attackers to manipulate environmental controls, disrupt operations, or gain deeper access to connected industrial networks. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the initial access and credential access phases, specifically targeting the exploitation of weak access controls and information gathering activities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate firmware updates to version E0.2.0.2 or later, which should address the underlying access control flaws. Network segmentation and perimeter controls should be implemented to limit direct access to these devices from untrusted networks. Additionally, administrators should conduct thorough network audits to identify all affected devices and implement monitoring for unauthorized access attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure configuration management and regular firmware updates in industrial control systems, as highlighted by NIST SP 800-82 guidelines for industrial control systems security. Organizations should also consider implementing network access control measures and regular vulnerability assessments to prevent similar issues in other networked industrial devices that may share similar architectural flaws or security weaknesses.