CVE-2021-22656 in iView
Summary
by MITRE • 02/12/2021
Advantech iView versions prior to v5.7.03.6112 are vulnerable to directory traversal, which may allow an attacker to read sensitive files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/01/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-22656 affects Advantech iView software versions before v5.7.03.6112 and represents a critical directory traversal flaw that exposes sensitive system information to unauthorized parties. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the application's file handling mechanisms, allowing malicious actors to manipulate file path parameters and access files outside the intended directory structure. The flaw specifically impacts the web interface component of the iView platform, which is commonly used for monitoring and control applications in industrial environments. Directory traversal vulnerabilities of this nature are particularly dangerous because they can enable attackers to access configuration files, user credentials, system logs, and other confidential data that should remain restricted to authorized personnel only.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows an attacker to exploit the application's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input when processing file requests. By crafting malicious requests that include directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\, an attacker can navigate through the file system hierarchy and retrieve files that should be protected. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-22, which defines the weakness of improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal. The vulnerability exists in the application's web server component that handles file access requests, particularly when processing requests for log files, configuration data, or other sensitive system information. The flaw demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate access control mechanisms that fail to enforce proper file system boundaries.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it can lead to complete system compromise in environments where iView is deployed. Industrial control systems and monitoring platforms that utilize Advantech iView may be at risk of unauthorized access to critical operational data, potentially enabling attackers to gain insights into system architecture, network configurations, and operational procedures. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in industrial settings where these systems control critical infrastructure, as it could provide attackers with information needed to plan more sophisticated attacks. Additionally, the exposure of sensitive files may include authentication credentials, system configurations, and operational parameters that could be leveraged to escalate privileges or conduct further reconnaissance. Organizations using affected versions of iView may face regulatory compliance issues and potential security breaches that could disrupt operations and compromise system integrity.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including updating to Advantech iView version v5.7.03.6112 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the directory traversal vulnerability. Network segmentation and access control measures should be strengthened to limit exposure of the affected systems to untrusted networks and users. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other industrial control systems. The mitigation strategy should also include monitoring for suspicious file access patterns and implementing proper input validation controls. Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and security monitoring solutions that can detect and block directory traversal attempts. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques such as T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachments) as attackers may use the discovered information to plan further attacks. The vulnerability also demonstrates the importance of proper secure coding practices and input validation, which are fundamental requirements for protecting industrial control systems from exploitation.