CVE-2017-12698 in WebAccess
Summary
by MITRE
An Improper Authentication issue was discovered in Advantech WebAccess versions prior to V8.2_20170817. Specially crafted requests allow a possible authentication bypass that could allow remote code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/12/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-12698 represents a critical authentication flaw in Advantech WebAccess software versions prior to V8.2_20170817. This issue falls under the category of improper authentication as defined by CWE-287, where the system fails to properly validate user credentials or session tokens. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and authentication mechanisms within the web-based management interface of the industrial automation platform. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting specially designed HTTP requests that bypass the normal authentication process, effectively allowing unauthorized access to the system without proper credentials. This authentication bypass vulnerability is particularly concerning in industrial control systems where operational technology environments require robust security measures to prevent unauthorized access to critical infrastructure components.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of authentication tokens or session identifiers within the HTTP request headers or parameters. The flaw likely exists in how the system processes authentication requests, potentially allowing attackers to predict or reuse session tokens, manipulate authentication parameters, or exploit weak cryptographic implementations in the authentication flow. When properly exploited, this vulnerability enables remote code execution capabilities, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system with the privileges of the authenticated user. The attack vector typically involves sending malformed or crafted requests to the WebAccess management interface, which then processes these requests without proper authentication verification. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and credential access, specifically targeting the manipulation of authentication mechanisms to gain unauthorized access.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-12698 extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it creates a pathway for attackers to escalate privileges and potentially compromise entire industrial control networks. Organizations using affected Advantech WebAccess versions face significant risks including data breaches, system compromise, and potential disruption of critical industrial processes. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where WebAccess is used for SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, as it could enable attackers to manipulate industrial processes, access sensitive operational data, or cause physical damage to equipment. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making it particularly attractive for cybercriminals targeting industrial infrastructure. This vulnerability directly impacts the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of industrial control systems, potentially leading to operational disruptions, financial losses, and safety risks in critical infrastructure environments.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates for Advantech WebAccess to version V8.2_20170817 or later. Network segmentation should be implemented to isolate WebAccess systems from general network traffic, and access controls should be strengthened through the use of firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and monitoring solutions. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar authentication flaws in other industrial control systems. Additionally, implementing network access controls, disabling unnecessary services, and conducting regular security training for personnel managing industrial control systems can help reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper authentication implementation in industrial environments and aligns with security frameworks such as NIST SP 800-82 for industrial control systems security, emphasizing the need for robust authentication mechanisms in operational technology environments. Organizations should also consider implementing zero trust network architectures that verify every request regardless of its origin, as traditional perimeter-based security models may be insufficient to protect against such authentication bypass vulnerabilities in industrial control systems.