CVE-2018-15486 in Group Controller
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered on KONE Group Controller (KGC) devices before 4.6.5. Unauthenticated Local File Inclusion and File modification is possible through the open HTTP interface by modifying the name parameter of the file endpoint, aka KONE-02.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/07/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-15486 affects KONE Group Controller devices operating with firmware versions prior to 4.6.5, representing a critical security flaw that enables unauthorized local file inclusion and modification through an exposed HTTP interface. This vulnerability specifically targets the file endpoint of the device's web interface, where the name parameter can be manipulated to access and alter system files without requiring authentication credentials. The affected devices are commonly deployed in elevator control systems and building automation environments where physical and network security are paramount considerations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and access control mechanisms within the KONE Group Controller's web server component. When an attacker sends a specially crafted HTTP request to the file endpoint, the device fails to properly sanitize the name parameter, allowing malicious users to traverse the file system and access sensitive files or modify system components. This flaw falls under the CWE-22 category of Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, commonly known as Path Traversal, which is a well-documented vulnerability pattern that has been exploited across numerous industrial control systems and web applications. The vulnerability enables attackers to potentially read configuration files, system logs, or even replace critical firmware components, fundamentally compromising the integrity and security posture of the affected devices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with the capability to manipulate elevator control systems and building automation infrastructure without requiring physical access or legitimate credentials. This represents a significant risk in environments where these controllers manage critical infrastructure, potentially allowing attackers to disrupt building operations, create false elevator statuses, or even disable safety mechanisms. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in the context of the ATT&CK framework's privilege escalation and persistence tactics, as an attacker could leverage this initial access to establish long-term control over the affected systems. The unauthenticated nature of the exploit means that any network-connected device with the vulnerable firmware could be compromised simply by exposing the HTTP interface, making it an attractive target for automated attacks and reconnaissance activities.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including firmware updates to version 4.6.5 or later, which addresses the input validation issues and strengthens access controls on the HTTP interface. Network segmentation should be implemented to isolate affected devices from general network access, while firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to the HTTP endpoints to only trusted administrative networks. Additionally, regular security assessments should be conducted to identify any other potentially vulnerable components within the industrial control system environment. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices in embedded systems and demonstrates the critical need for proper input validation and access control mechanisms in all network-facing components of industrial automation equipment.