CVE-2019-18321 in SPPA-T3000 MS3000 Migration Server
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability has been identified in SPPA-T3000 MS3000 Migration Server (All versions). An attacker with network access to the MS3000 Server could be able to read and write arbitrary files on the local file system by sending specifically crafted packets to port 5010/tcp. This vulnerability is independent from CVE-2019-18322. Please note that an attacker needs to have network access to the MS3000 in order to exploit this vulnerability. At the time of advisory publication no public exploitation of this security vulnerability was known.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-18321 affects the SPPA-T3000 MS3000 Migration Server, a critical component in industrial automation and control systems. This device serves as a migration server for transferring data and configurations between different versions of the SPPA-T3000 system, which is widely deployed in process industries such as oil and gas, chemical manufacturing, and power generation. The MS3000 server operates on TCP port 5010, making it accessible over network connections and creating a potential attack surface for adversaries targeting industrial control systems. The vulnerability represents a significant security risk as it allows for arbitrary file read and write operations on the local file system, effectively granting attackers full control over the server's data and operational capabilities.
This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and authentication mechanisms within the MS3000 Migration Server's network protocol implementation. The server fails to properly validate incoming packets sent to port 5010, allowing malicious actors to craft specially formatted packets that bypass normal access controls. When processed, these crafted packets enable attackers to perform file operations including reading sensitive configuration files, writing malicious code to system directories, and potentially executing arbitrary commands on the underlying operating system. The flaw operates at the application layer protocol level, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited without requiring physical access to the device or specialized knowledge of the internal system architecture. This type of vulnerability is categorized as a privilege escalation and arbitrary file write issue under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-18321 is severe for organizations relying on SPPA-T3000 systems, as it could lead to complete system compromise and operational disruption. Attackers could potentially modify critical configuration files, inject malicious code into the migration process, or exfiltrate sensitive industrial data that could be used for further attacks or to disrupt production processes. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in industrial environments where system availability and integrity are paramount, as unauthorized file modifications could result in system instability, incorrect data processing, or even physical safety hazards. The attack requires only network access to the target server, making it accessible to adversaries who may have gained access through other means such as compromised credentials, network infiltration, or lateral movement within the industrial network. Organizations operating these systems face the risk of supply chain attacks or targeted industrial espionage, where attackers could use this vulnerability to gain persistent access to critical industrial control infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-18321 should focus on network segmentation and access control measures to limit exposure of the MS3000 Migration Server to untrusted networks. Organizations should implement strict firewall rules to restrict access to TCP port 5010, allowing connections only from trusted network segments and authorized management systems. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual traffic patterns or attempts to access the vulnerable port. The affected vendor should be consulted for patches or firmware updates that address the input validation flaws in the server's protocol implementation. Security teams should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems specifically configured to identify attempts to exploit this vulnerability. Additional protective measures include disabling unnecessary services, implementing strong network authentication mechanisms, and conducting regular security assessments of industrial control systems to identify similar vulnerabilities. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage and T1566 for credential harvesting, representing common attack patterns in industrial control system environments. Organizations should also consider implementing zero trust network architectures that verify all network traffic regardless of source location, as traditional perimeter-based security models may not adequately protect against such attacks.