CVE-2020-24569 in mymbCONNECT24
Summary
by MITRE • 10/04/2020
An issue was discovered in MB CONNECT LINE mymbCONNECT24 and mbCONNECT24 through 2.6.1. There is a blind SQL injection in the knximport component via an advanced attack vector, allowing logged in attackers to discover arbitrary information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/02/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-24569 represents a critical blind sql injection flaw within the mbconnect24 software suite, specifically affecting versions through 2.6.1. This vulnerability exists within the knximport component of the mbmbCONNECT24 and mbCONNECT24 applications, which are commonly used for building automation and energy management systems. The flaw allows authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary database queries without direct output, making it particularly dangerous as it operates silently and can be exploited to extract sensitive information from the underlying database infrastructure. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper parameter handling within the knximport functionality, which processes data imports for KNX (Knx Network eXchange) protocols used in building automation systems.
The technical implementation of this blind sql injection vulnerability occurs through a sophisticated attack vector that leverages the authenticated user context to manipulate database queries. Attackers with valid login credentials can craft malicious inputs that are processed by the knximport component without proper sanitization or parameterization. This allows them to infer database structure and content through indirect means such as timing attacks, boolean-based responses, or error message analysis. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 as SQL injection, and specifically aligns with CWE-942 which addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands. The attack requires minimal privileges since the vulnerability is accessible to logged-in users, making it particularly concerning for environments where user access controls may not be properly enforced.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the capability to extract sensitive data including user credentials, system configurations, and potentially proprietary building automation data. In building automation environments, this could lead to unauthorized access to critical infrastructure controls, disruption of building management systems, or even physical security compromise through manipulation of access control systems. The vulnerability affects organizations using mbconnect24 for energy management, building automation, and smart building solutions, potentially exposing critical infrastructure to unauthorized access. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1213.002 (Data from Information Repositories) and T1566.001 (Phishing via Social Engineering), as it enables data extraction and could be combined with social engineering tactics to escalate privileges. The blind nature of the injection makes detection particularly challenging for security monitoring systems, as there is no direct output indicating successful exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2020-24569 should prioritize immediate patching of affected versions to 2.6.2 or later, as provided by the vendor. Organizations should implement robust input validation and parameterized queries throughout the application codebase, particularly within the knximport component and similar data processing modules. Network segmentation and access control measures should be enhanced to limit the impact of compromised accounts, implementing principle of least privilege and role-based access controls. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous database query patterns and timing variations that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in related systems and applications. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation in industrial control systems and building automation environments, where the consequences of security breaches can extend beyond traditional information technology impacts to affect physical infrastructure and operational continuity. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring solutions and regular vulnerability scanning to maintain ongoing protection against similar threats.