CVE-2020-7548 in Smartlink
Summary
by MITRE • 12/01/2020
A CWE-330 - Use of Insufficiently Random Values vulnerability exists in Smartlink, PowerTag, and Wiser Series Gateways (see security notification for version information) that could allow unauthorized users to login.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/11/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-7548 represents a critical weakness in the authentication mechanisms of Smartlink, PowerTag, and Wiser Series Gateways, classified under CWE-330 which specifically addresses the use of insufficiently random values in security-sensitive contexts. This flaw manifests in the gateway devices' inability to generate cryptographically secure random numbers during the authentication process, creating a significant attack surface that adversaries can exploit to gain unauthorized access to these industrial IoT devices.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the devices' reliance on pseudo-random number generators that lack proper entropy sources and cryptographic strength. When users attempt to authenticate to these gateways, the system generates session identifiers, authentication tokens, or other security parameters using algorithms that produce predictable or easily guessable values. This weakness allows attackers to reverse-engineer authentication mechanisms through pattern analysis, brute force attacks, or statistical inference methods that exploit the predictability of the random number generation process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as these gateways typically serve as critical points in industrial control systems and smart grid infrastructure. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain administrative privileges to manipulate gateway configurations, potentially disrupting power distribution networks, accessing sensitive operational data, or using the compromised devices as entry points for lateral movement within larger industrial networks. The implications are particularly severe given that these devices often operate in environments where security is paramount and unauthorized access could lead to significant operational disruptions or safety hazards.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including firmware updates from vendors to address the random number generation algorithms, network segmentation to isolate these devices from critical systems, and enhanced monitoring of authentication attempts to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers legitimate credentials use, and organizations should consider implementing additional authentication controls such as multi-factor authentication where possible. Security teams should also conduct thorough network assessments to identify all affected devices and establish incident response procedures specifically tailored to handle potential exploitation of this class of vulnerability in industrial environments.