CVE-2018-16282 in EDR-810
Summary
by MITRE
A command injection vulnerability in the web server functionality of Moxa EDR-810 V4.2 build 18041013 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary OS commands with root privilege via the caname parameter to the /xml/net_WebCADELETEGetValue URI.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/25/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-16282 represents a critical command injection flaw within the Moxa EDR-810 V4.2 network device firmware, specifically affecting the web server component that handles configuration management requests. This vulnerability resides in the XML web service interface responsible for managing certificate authority operations through the /xml/net_WebCADELETEGetValue URI endpoint. The flaw manifests when the system fails to properly sanitize user input passed through the caname parameter, creating an exploitable path for remote code execution. Security researchers have classified this issue as a command injection vulnerability that directly violates the principles of input validation and secure coding practices.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the caname parameter within the targeted URI, allowing attackers to inject malicious commands that execute with root privileges on the underlying operating system. This privilege escalation capability stems from the web server's insufficient validation of user-supplied data before incorporating it into system command executions. The vulnerability specifically affects devices running Moxa EDR-810 firmware version V4.2 build 18041013, making it particularly concerning for industrial control systems and network infrastructure deployments where such devices are commonly utilized. The flaw aligns with CWE-77, which categorizes command injection vulnerabilities, and demonstrates how improper input handling can lead to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with complete administrative control over affected devices. Once exploited, adversaries can manipulate network configurations, access sensitive data, install malicious software, or establish persistent backdoors within the network infrastructure. This represents a significant threat to industrial environments where network reliability and security are paramount, as the compromised device could serve as a foothold for lateral movement throughout the network. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers need not have physical access to the device, making it particularly dangerous for critical infrastructure deployments where network exposure is common.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including firmware updates from Moxa to address the command injection flaw, network segmentation to limit access to affected devices, and monitoring of network traffic for suspicious activity related to the vulnerable URI endpoint. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1203, which describes exploitation for execution, and T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreters, highlighting the multi-faceted attack vectors possible through this flaw. Additionally, implementing input validation controls, disabling unnecessary web services, and employing network access controls can provide additional defense layers. The vulnerability underscores the importance of secure firmware development practices and regular security assessments for industrial control systems, particularly given the increasing integration of networked devices in operational technology environments where traditional cybersecurity measures may not be sufficient to protect against sophisticated attacks targeting industrial infrastructure.