CVE-2016-8379 in ioLogik
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in Moxa ioLogik E1210, firmware Version V2.4 and prior, ioLogik E1211, firmware Version V2.3 and prior, ioLogik E1212, firmware Version V2.4 and prior, ioLogik E1213, firmware Version V2.5 and prior, ioLogik E1214, firmware Version V2.4 and prior, ioLogik E1240, firmware Version V2.3 and prior, ioLogik E1241, firmware Version V2.4 and prior, ioLogik E1242, firmware Version V2.4 and prior, ioLogik E1260, firmware Version V2.4 and prior, ioLogik E1262, firmware Version V2.4 and prior, ioLogik E2210, firmware versions prior to V3.13, ioLogik E2212, firmware versions prior to V3.14, ioLogik E2214, firmware versions prior to V3.12, ioLogik E2240, firmware versions prior to V3.12, ioLogik E2242, firmware versions prior to V3.12, ioLogik E2260, firmware versions prior to V3.13, and ioLogik E2262, firmware versions prior to V3.12. Users are restricted to using short passwords.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/14/2020
The vulnerability described in CVE-2016-8379 represents a significant security weakness in Moxa ioLogik series industrial devices, specifically affecting multiple models across various firmware versions. This issue stems from inadequate password complexity requirements that allow users to set short and potentially weak passwords, creating an exploitable entry point for unauthorized access to industrial control systems. The affected devices include a range of ioLogik E12xx and E22xx series units, spanning multiple model numbers and firmware versions, indicating a widespread problem within the product line that requires immediate attention. The vulnerability directly impacts the authentication mechanisms of these industrial devices, which are critical components in industrial automation and monitoring environments where security is paramount.
This weakness constitutes a direct violation of security best practices and falls under the category of weak authentication mechanisms as classified by CWE-521. The vulnerability allows attackers to potentially guess or brute force weak passwords, exploiting the lack of proper password strength enforcement within the device firmware. The restricted password length capabilities create a predictable attack surface where attackers can systematically test common short passwords or employ automated brute force techniques to gain unauthorized access to the industrial devices. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in industrial environments where these devices often control critical infrastructure components, making them attractive targets for cyber attacks that could disrupt operations or compromise safety systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as these industrial devices typically serve as critical components in monitoring and control systems for manufacturing processes, building automation, and other industrial applications. An attacker who successfully exploits this weakness could potentially gain control over industrial processes, modify critical parameters, or disrupt operations in ways that could result in significant financial loss, safety hazards, or operational downtime. The vulnerability creates a persistent risk that remains active as long as devices operate with the affected firmware versions, making it essential for organizations to conduct comprehensive inventory assessments and implement immediate remediation measures across all affected devices.
Organizations should prioritize updating firmware to the latest available versions that address this password strength restriction, as Moxa has likely released patches to resolve this issue. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of these devices to untrusted networks, while monitoring systems should be deployed to detect any unauthorized access attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of robust authentication mechanisms in industrial environments and underscores the need for regular security assessments of operational technology infrastructure. Compliance with industrial security standards such as NIST SP 800-82 and IEC 62443 should be maintained to ensure that authentication requirements meet the security needs of industrial control systems. Organizations must also consider implementing multi-factor authentication mechanisms where possible to add additional layers of security beyond password-based authentication, particularly for critical industrial devices that require high levels of protection.