CVE-2016-4514 in PT-7728
Summary
by MITRE
Moxa PT-7728 devices with software 3.4 build 15081113 allow remote authenticated users to change the configuration via vectors involving a local proxy.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/31/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-4514 affects Moxa PT-7728 industrial networking devices running software version 3.4 build 15081113. This represents a significant security flaw that allows remote authenticated attackers to manipulate device configuration settings through a local proxy mechanism. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and access control measures within the device's web administration interface, creating a pathway for privilege escalation and configuration manipulation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a local proxy component that processes configuration requests from authenticated users. When users access the device's web interface, the local proxy component fails to properly validate or sanitize input parameters, allowing attackers to inject malicious configuration data. This flaw operates at the application layer and leverages the existing authentication mechanism to gain elevated privileges within the device's configuration management system. The vulnerability specifically targets the device's configuration change functionality, enabling attackers to modify critical network settings, user accounts, and system parameters without proper authorization.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to industrial control systems and network infrastructure managed by Moxa PT-7728 devices. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers can compromise these devices from outside the local network, potentially disrupting critical operations or creating backdoor access points. The configuration change capability allows for extensive system modification including network configuration changes, user privilege adjustments, and potentially the installation of malicious firmware components. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and availability of industrial network operations, particularly in environments where these devices serve as critical communication hubs.
The security implications extend beyond simple configuration changes to encompass potential system compromise and operational disruption. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to redirect network traffic, disable security features, or establish persistent access to the industrial network. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) and CWE-352 (Cross-Site Request Forgery) categories, representing a combination of access control flaws and proxy manipulation techniques. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including firmware updates, network segmentation, and enhanced monitoring of configuration change activities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1071.004 (Application Layer Protocol: SSH) and T1566.001 (Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment) as it represents a configuration-based attack vector that could be exploited through various initial access methods. Network administrators should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious configuration change patterns and ensure that all devices are running patched firmware versions to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.