CVE-2017-13996 in LVIS-3ME
Summary
by MITRE
A Relative Path Traversal issue was discovered in LOYTEC LVIS-3ME versions prior to 6.2.0. The web user interface fails to prevent access to critical files that non administrative users should not have access to, which could allow an attacker to create or modify files or execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/15/2021
The CVE-2017-13996 vulnerability represents a critical relative path traversal flaw in LOYTEC LVIS-3ME software versions before 6.2.0, exposing a fundamental security weakness in the web-based user interface design. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category of Path Traversal attacks, where insufficient input validation allows attackers to manipulate file paths and gain unauthorized access to system resources. The flaw specifically affects the web interface's file access controls, creating a scenario where non-administrative users can bypass intended access restrictions and potentially escalate their privileges within the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate sanitization of user-supplied input within the web application's file handling mechanisms. When users interact with the web interface, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize file path parameters, allowing malicious actors to craft requests that traverse directory structures and access files outside of the intended application scope. This weakness enables attackers to target critical system files, configuration data, and potentially execute arbitrary code on the affected device. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows for both read and write operations, meaning attackers can not only access sensitive information but also modify system files or inject malicious code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with the capability to fundamentally compromise the integrity and availability of the LOYTEC LVIS-3ME system. Non-administrative users who exploit this vulnerability could gain access to system configuration files, user credentials, or other sensitive data that should be restricted to authorized personnel only. Furthermore, the ability to create or modify files opens the door for persistent backdoor installation, data corruption, or complete system takeover. This represents a significant risk in industrial control systems where such devices often manage critical infrastructure components, potentially allowing attackers to disrupt operations or gain unauthorized control over physical processes.
Security professionals should implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to address this vulnerability effectively. The most critical action involves upgrading affected LOYTEC LVIS-3ME devices to version 6.2.0 or later, which contains the necessary patches to prevent path traversal attacks. Additionally, network segmentation should be implemented to limit direct access to the web interface, while robust input validation mechanisms must be deployed to filter all user-supplied data before it reaches the file system. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious path traversal attempts, and conduct regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other industrial control systems. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as the ability to execute arbitrary code represents a significant escalation path for attackers.