CVE-2021-22652 in iView
Summary
by MITRE • 02/12/2021
Access to the Advantech iView versions prior to v5.7.03.6112 configuration are missing authentication, which may allow an unauthorized attacker to change the configuration and obtain code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/01/2021
The CVE-2021-22652 vulnerability affects Advantech iView software versions prior to v5.7.03.6112, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity and confidentiality of industrial control systems. This vulnerability stems from insufficient authentication mechanisms within the configuration interfaces of the iView platform, which is widely deployed in manufacturing and industrial automation environments. The absence of proper authentication controls creates a pathway for malicious actors to gain unauthorized access to system configuration parameters that should be protected from external modification.
The technical flaw manifests as a missing authentication check in the configuration management components of Advantech iView, allowing unauthenticated remote access to sensitive system settings. This weakness enables attackers to manipulate configuration files and system parameters without proper authorization, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability exists at the application layer and affects the software's ability to verify user identities before granting access to administrative functions. According to CWE classification, this represents a weakness in authentication mechanisms under CWE-305, specifically related to inadequate authentication controls that permit unauthorized access to privileged functions.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-22652 extends beyond simple configuration changes, as it creates opportunities for attackers to establish persistent access to industrial control systems. Unauthorized modification of configuration settings can lead to denial of service conditions, data corruption, or even execution of arbitrary code within the target environment. In industrial settings where iView is deployed for process control and monitoring, this vulnerability could result in production disruptions, safety hazards, or compromise of critical infrastructure operations. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004 which covers legitimate credentials, but in this case the flaw allows unauthorized access without legitimate credentials through missing authentication controls.
Organizations utilizing Advantech iView systems must prioritize immediate remediation by upgrading to version v5.7.03.6112 or later, which includes proper authentication mechanisms and access controls. Additional mitigations should include network segmentation to isolate iView systems from general network access, implementation of network monitoring to detect unauthorized access attempts, and regular security assessments of industrial control system components. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper authentication implementation in industrial environments where system integrity directly impacts operational safety and business continuity. Security teams should also consider implementing zero-trust network architectures that verify all access attempts regardless of network location, particularly for critical industrial control systems where traditional perimeter-based security models may prove insufficient.