CVE-2017-13995 in Webserver
Summary
by MITRE
An Improper Authentication issue was discovered in iniNet Solutions iniNet Webserver, all versions prior to V2.02.0100. The webserver does not properly authenticate users, which may allow a malicious attacker to access sensitive information such as HMI pages or modify PLC variables.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/15/2021
The iniNet Solutions iniNet Webserver represents a critical infrastructure component commonly deployed in industrial environments for web-based access to human machine interface systems and programmable logic controllers. This vulnerability affects all versions prior to V2.02.0100, indicating a long-standing security flaw that could have remained undetected for extended periods within operational technology environments. The webserver serves as a primary interface for industrial control systems, making it a prime target for adversaries seeking to compromise critical manufacturing and process control operations. The improper authentication mechanism creates a fundamental weakness in the security architecture that directly undermines the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of industrial control systems.
The technical flaw manifests as a failure in the authentication process where the iniNet Webserver does not properly validate user credentials or session tokens before granting access to sensitive system resources. This weakness allows unauthorized access to human machine interface pages that typically contain operational parameters, system status information, and control interfaces for programmable logic controllers. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and authentication logic within the web server component, creating a path for malicious actors to bypass normal access controls without proper authorization. This issue falls under the CWE-287 category of Improper Authentication, which specifically addresses weaknesses in authentication mechanisms that allow unauthorized access to systems and data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it enables attackers to modify PLC variables directly through the web interface. This capability represents a severe risk to industrial control systems, potentially allowing adversaries to manipulate production processes, alter operational parameters, or cause physical damage to equipment. The ability to access HMI pages and modify PLC variables creates a direct pathway for attackers to disrupt operations, compromise product quality, or even cause safety incidents in industrial environments. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004 for Valid Accounts and T1566.001 for Phishing, as attackers could leverage compromised credentials or exploit this weakness to gain elevated privileges within industrial control systems.
Organizations utilizing iniNet Webserver versions prior to V2.02.010 must implement immediate mitigations to address this vulnerability. The primary solution involves upgrading to the patched version V2.02.010 or later, which contains proper authentication mechanisms and credential validation. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit exposure of the webserver to only authorized personnel and systems. Additional security controls including strong authentication mechanisms, regular credential rotation, and monitoring of access logs can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches in industrial environments where operational technology systems may not receive the same level of security attention as traditional information technology infrastructure.