CVE-2018-10703 in AWK-3121
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered on Moxa AWK-3121 1.14 devices. It provides functionality so that an administrator can run scripts on the device to troubleshoot any issues. However, the same functionality allows an attacker to execute commands on the device. The POST parameter "iw_serverip" is susceptible to buffer overflow. By crafting a packet that contains a string of 480 characters, it is possible for an attacker to execute the attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/03/2023
The vulnerability identified in Moxa AWK-3121 devices represents a critical buffer overflow flaw that directly compromises the device's security integrity. This issue exists within the web-based management interface where administrators can execute troubleshooting scripts through a specific POST parameter named "iw_serverip". The device's failure to properly validate input length for this parameter creates an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized command execution capabilities. The vulnerability specifically manifests when an attacker sends a crafted HTTP POST request containing a string exceeding 480 characters, which triggers the buffer overflow condition.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic buffer overflow pattern where insufficient input validation permits memory corruption. The "iw_serverip" parameter lacks proper bounds checking, allowing attackers to overflow the allocated buffer space and overwrite adjacent memory locations. This memory corruption can be leveraged to redirect program execution flow, ultimately enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the web server process. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it requires no authentication, making it accessible to remote attackers who can exploit the vulnerability from outside the network perimeter.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability fundamentally undermines the security model of industrial network devices. The Moxa AWK-3121 serves as a critical component in industrial automation environments where device integrity is paramount for operational continuity. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute commands that could include installing backdoors, modifying device configurations, accessing sensitive data, or disrupting industrial processes. The vulnerability affects devices running firmware version 1.14, which represents a significant portion of deployed industrial equipment in manufacturing, energy, and critical infrastructure sectors. The lack of authentication requirements means that this vulnerability can be exploited by any remote attacker without requiring legitimate credentials.
The security implications extend beyond simple command execution to encompass broader industrial control system risks. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a clear violation of secure coding practices. The attack methodology follows patterns consistent with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and script injection, and T1566, which encompasses social engineering and remote services exploitation. Organizations utilizing these devices face potential operational technology (OT) security breaches that could compromise entire industrial networks, especially when these devices serve as gateways or communication endpoints in critical infrastructure environments.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate firmware updates from Moxa to address the buffer overflow condition, network segmentation to limit access to these devices, and implementation of intrusion detection systems to monitor for exploitation attempts. Device administrators should also consider disabling unnecessary web management interfaces, implementing strict access controls, and conducting regular security assessments of industrial network components. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of secure firmware development practices and the need for continuous security monitoring in industrial environments where device availability and integrity are essential for operational safety and business continuity.