CVE-2021-40389 in DeviceOn
Summary
by MITRE • 01/28/2022
A privilege escalation vulnerability exists in the installation of Advantech DeviceOn/iEdge Server 1.0.2. A specially-crafted file can be replaced in the system to escalate privileges to NT SYSTEM authority. An attacker can provide a malicious file to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/02/2022
This vulnerability represents a critical privilege escalation flaw in Advantech DeviceOn/iEdge Server version 1.0.2 that allows attackers to escalate their privileges to the highest system level authority known as NT SYSTEM. The vulnerability stems from improper file handling during the installation process, creating a path for malicious actors to manipulate system components and gain unauthorized administrative access. The flaw specifically manifests when the system processes specially crafted files that can be substituted within the installation directory structure, enabling arbitrary code execution with elevated privileges. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of insecure file handling and privilege escalation as defined by CWE-276, which addresses improper file permissions and inadequate access controls.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to place a malicious file in a location where the Advantech DeviceOn/iEdge Server installation process will process it during normal system operations. Once the malicious file is processed, the attacker gains the ability to execute commands with the highest system privileges, effectively compromising the entire system. This vulnerability directly impacts the principle of least privilege and demonstrates a failure in the system's integrity checking mechanisms during installation. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it leverages the legitimate installation process to deliver malicious payloads, making detection more difficult and allowing the attacker to operate with system-level permissions. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1068 which covers local privilege escalation and T1548.1 which addresses abuse of system permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it allows attackers to completely compromise the targeted system without requiring additional attack vectors or credentials. Once escalated to NT SYSTEM level, the attacker can modify system files, install additional malware, create backdoors, and access all system resources including sensitive data and network communications. The vulnerability affects organizations using Advantech DeviceOn/iEdge Server 1.0.2, particularly those in industrial control systems and edge computing environments where such devices are commonly deployed. The attack requires minimal sophistication to execute but provides maximum impact, making it particularly dangerous in environments where system integrity is paramount. Organizations may face regulatory compliance issues and potential data breaches if this vulnerability is exploited in production environments. The vulnerability also represents a significant risk to supply chain security, as attackers could potentially compromise systems through malicious updates or installation files.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of the Advantech DeviceOn/iEdge Server to version 1.0.3 or later which addresses this privilege escalation vulnerability. System administrators should implement strict file permission controls and access restrictions on installation directories to prevent unauthorized file replacement. Network segmentation and monitoring should be implemented to detect unusual file modification activities in system directories. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other installed software components. Additionally, organizations should enforce the principle of least privilege by ensuring that installation processes run with minimal required permissions rather than administrative privileges. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure software development practices and proper input validation during installation processes to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future. Security teams should also implement file integrity monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized modifications to critical system files and installation directories.