CVE-2019-5158 in e!Cockpit
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable firmware downgrade vulnerability exists in the firmware update package functionality of the WAGO e!COCKPIT automation software v1.6.1.5. A specially crafted firmware update file can allow an attacker to install an older firmware version while the user thinks a newer firmware version is being installed. An attacker can create a custom firmware update package with invalid metadata in order to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/10/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2019-5158 represents a critical security flaw within the WAGO eCOCKPIT automation software version 1.6.1.5, specifically targeting the firmware update package functionality. This issue falls under the category of firmware integrity and authenticity verification failures, which are particularly dangerous in industrial control systems where software updates are essential for maintaining operational security and functionality. The vulnerability stems from inadequate validation mechanisms within the firmware update process, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate the update sequence and potentially compromise system integrity.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the firmware downgrade capability through manipulation of metadata within firmware update packages. Attackers can craft custom firmware update files containing invalid or falsified metadata that bypasses normal verification checks. This flaw allows the system to accept and install older firmware versions even when newer ones are specified, effectively creating a rollback scenario that can introduce known vulnerabilities or remove security enhancements that were previously applied. The mechanism relies on the system's trust in update package metadata without proper cryptographic verification or version validation checks, making it particularly dangerous in environments where security patches and updates are critical for operational safety.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple software rollback scenarios, as it can enable attackers to introduce previously patched vulnerabilities back into the system. This creates a persistent security risk where organizations may believe their systems are up-to-date with the latest security measures while simultaneously running outdated firmware that contains known exploits. The vulnerability particularly affects industrial automation environments where WAGO eCOCKPIT is deployed, potentially compromising the integrity of critical infrastructure control systems. The attack vector requires the user to initiate the firmware update process, making it somewhat social engineering dependent but still highly dangerous due to the potential for system compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on implementing robust firmware authentication mechanisms and ensuring that all update packages undergo strict cryptographic verification before installation. Organizations should disable or restrict firmware update functionality until patches are available, and implement network segmentation to limit access to update servers. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining proper software version control and implementing secure update protocols that prevent unauthorized firmware modifications. Security measures should include mandatory digital signatures on all firmware packages, version validation checks, and regular security assessments of industrial control system update mechanisms. This issue aligns with CWE-353, which addresses the weakness in software that does not properly verify the authenticity of software updates, and represents a significant concern in the ATT&CK framework under software supply chain compromise techniques.