CVE-2018-10607 in TELEM GW6
Summary
by MITRE
Martem TELEM GW6 and GWM devices with firmware 2018.04.18-linux_4-01-601cb47 and prior allow the creation of new connections to one or more IOAs, without closing them properly, which may cause a denial of service within the industrial process control channel.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/11/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-10607 affects Martem TELEM GW6 and GWM industrial devices running firmware versions up to and including 2018.04.18-linux_4-01-601cb47. These devices operate within critical industrial process control environments where reliable communication and connection management are essential for maintaining operational continuity. The flaw resides in the improper handling of input/output application connections within the device's communication stack, creating a scenario where network connections to industrial I/O applications can be established without proper connection termination protocols being executed.
This technical deficiency represents a classic resource management vulnerability that aligns with CWE-404, which deals with improper resource cleanup or release. The device fails to properly close established connections to I/O applications before creating new ones, leading to a gradual depletion of available connection slots or system resources. The improper connection handling creates a condition where multiple connections remain in an inconsistent state, potentially causing the device to become unresponsive or unable to maintain proper communication with industrial control systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption to potentially compromise entire industrial control processes. When connections are not properly closed, the device may experience memory leaks, connection table exhaustion, or resource contention that ultimately results in a denial of service condition. This can severely impact industrial process control channels where continuous communication is required for monitoring and control operations, potentially leading to production downtime, safety system failures, or process control malfunctions. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in industrial environments where real-time communication and predictable system behavior are critical for operational safety and efficiency.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability enables potential attackers to exploit the resource management flaw to create sustained denial of service conditions against industrial control systems. The ATT&CK framework's T1499.004 technique of network denial of service is directly applicable here, as the vulnerability allows for the exhaustion of connection resources that can be leveraged for operational disruption. Organizations should implement immediate firmware updates to address the vulnerability, while also establishing monitoring protocols to detect unusual connection patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Network segmentation and access controls should be reviewed to limit potential attack surfaces, and regular vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar resource management issues in industrial control system components. The remediation process must consider the critical nature of industrial environments where system availability and reliability are paramount for operational safety and business continuity.