CVE-2018-19660 in NPort W2x50A
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable authenticated command-injection vulnerability exists in the web server functionality of Moxa NPort W2x50A products with firmware before 2.2 Build_18082311. A specially crafted HTTP POST request to /goform/webSettingProfileSecurity can result in running OS commands as the root user.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/13/2023
The vulnerability CVE-2018-19660 represents a critical authenticated command injection flaw in Moxa NPort W2x50A industrial network devices. This issue affects firmware versions prior to 2.2 Build_18082311 and demonstrates a severe security weakness in the web server component of these industrial communication products. The vulnerability specifically resides within the /goform/webSettingProfileSecurity endpoint which processes HTTP POST requests, making it accessible through the device's web interface. Attackers must first authenticate to the device to exploit this vulnerability, but once authenticated, they can execute arbitrary operating system commands with root privileges, effectively compromising the entire device.
This command injection vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the web server's handling of HTTP POST parameters. The affected Moxa NPort W2x50A devices are designed for industrial applications where network connectivity and remote management are essential, making them attractive targets for attackers seeking persistent access to industrial control systems. The vulnerability allows authenticated attackers to inject malicious commands that get executed with the highest privileges available on the system, which in industrial environments can lead to complete network compromise and operational disruption. The root-level execution capability means that attackers can modify system configurations, install backdoors, or exfiltrate sensitive operational data without detection.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple device compromise, as industrial network devices like the Moxa NPort W2x50A often serve as critical communication bridges between field devices and enterprise networks. When exploited, this vulnerability enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to industrial control systems, potentially leading to production disruptions, data breaches, or even physical safety hazards in critical infrastructure environments. The authentication requirement does not adequately protect against insider threats or credential compromise scenarios, where attackers who have legitimate access to the device could exploit this vulnerability to escalate privileges and maintain persistent access. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and CWE-77 for command injection, demonstrating how improper input handling creates opportunities for attackers to execute malicious code.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including firmware updates to version 2.2 Build_18082311 or later, which addresses this specific command injection vulnerability. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit access to these devices to authorized personnel only, while monitoring for suspicious HTTP POST requests to the affected endpoint. Security teams should also implement intrusion detection systems capable of identifying anomalous command execution patterns and regularly audit device configurations to ensure proper access controls remain in place. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices in industrial network equipment and underscores the need for comprehensive vulnerability management programs in critical infrastructure environments.