CVE-2018-16059 in WirelessHART Fieldgate SWG70
Summary
by MITRE
Endress+Hauser WirelessHART Fieldgate SWG70 3.x devices allow Directory Traversal via the fcgi-bin/wgsetcgi filename parameter.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/06/2024
The Endress+Hauser WirelessHART Fieldgate SWG70 3.x series devices present a critical directory traversal vulnerability that enables unauthorized access to sensitive system files and directories. This vulnerability exists within the web interface of the device, specifically in the fcgi-bin/wgsetcgi endpoint where the filename parameter is processed without proper input validation. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate the filename parameter to access files outside the intended directory structure, potentially exposing system configuration data, authentication credentials, and other confidential information stored on the device.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input sanitization and validation within the web application layer of the Fieldgate SWG70 device. When the filename parameter is submitted through the wgsetcgi interface, the system fails to properly sanitize user input, allowing malicious actors to craft requests that traverse directory structures using sequences such as "../" or similar path manipulation techniques. This weakness directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as directory traversal or path traversal attacks. The vulnerability affects all versions of the device running software version 3.x, making it a widespread concern across deployed industrial control systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can enable attackers to gain deeper system access and potentially compromise the entire industrial network infrastructure. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could access sensitive configuration files that may contain system passwords, network settings, or other critical operational data. The exposure of such information could facilitate more sophisticated attacks including privilege escalation, system compromise, or disruption of industrial processes. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged as a stepping stone for lateral movement within industrial networks, particularly in environments where these devices are part of larger connected systems.
Security professionals should implement immediate mitigations including network segmentation to isolate affected devices from critical network segments, disabling unnecessary web interfaces where possible, and implementing proper input validation controls. The affected devices should be updated to the latest firmware releases provided by Endress+Hauser that address this directory traversal vulnerability. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect suspicious directory traversal attempts and establish strict access controls for device management interfaces. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques such as T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation and T1566 for credential access through exploitation of network services. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in industrial control systems and ensure proper patch management processes are in place for critical infrastructure components.