CVE-2018-15706 in WebAccess
Summary
by MITRE
WADashboard API in Advantech WebAccess 8.3.1 and 8.3.2 allows remote authenticated attackers to read any file on the filesystem due to a directory traversal vulnerability in the readFile API.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/09/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-15706 represents a critical directory traversal flaw within the WADashboard API component of Advantech WebAccess versions 8.3.1 and 8.3.2. This security weakness exists in the readFile API function which fails to properly validate user-supplied input parameters, allowing authenticated attackers to manipulate file path references and access arbitrary files on the underlying filesystem. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization mechanisms that permit attackers to exploit the API by crafting malicious requests containing directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ which bypass normal file access controls and enable unauthorized data retrieval.
This directory traversal vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The flaw represents a fundamental failure in input validation and access control implementation within the WebAccess API framework. Attackers with valid authentication credentials can leverage this vulnerability to access sensitive system files, configuration data, database files, and potentially system binaries that should remain protected from unauthorized access. The impact extends beyond simple data theft as attackers may also discover system vulnerabilities, extract authentication credentials, or gather intelligence for further exploitation attempts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant for organizations utilizing Advantech WebAccess systems, particularly those in industrial control environments where security is paramount. Remote authenticated attackers who have gained valid login credentials can exploit this weakness to compromise system integrity and confidentiality. The vulnerability enables attackers to access critical operational data, system configuration files, and potentially sensitive information that could be used for lateral movement within the network or to launch more sophisticated attacks. In industrial environments, this could lead to operational disruption, data compromise, and potential safety system vulnerabilities that might affect physical processes and equipment.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates for Advantech WebAccess versions 8.3.1 and 8.3.2 to address this directory traversal vulnerability. Network segmentation and access control measures should be enhanced to limit the scope of potential attacks, ensuring that only authorized personnel have access to the WADashboard API components. Additionally, implementing input validation controls and parameterized queries within the API framework can prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in the future. Security monitoring should include detection of anomalous file access patterns and unusual API usage that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper access control implementation and input validation in web applications, aligning with ATT&CK techniques related to privilege escalation and credential access through path traversal methods. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and conducting regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in their industrial control systems.