CVE-2022-2005 in C-more EA9 HMI
Summary
by MITRE • 08/31/2022
AutomationDirect C-more EA9 HTTP webserver uses an insecure mechanism to transport credentials from client to web server, which may allow an attacker to obtain the login credentials and login as a valid user. This issue affects: AutomationDirect C-more EA9 EA9-T6CL versions prior to 6.73; EA9-T6CL-R versions prior to 6.73; EA9-T7CL versions prior to 6.73; EA9-T7CL-R versions prior to 6.73; EA9-T8CL versions prior to 6.73; EA9-T10CL versions prior to 6.73; EA9-T10WCL versions prior to 6.73; EA9-T12CL versions prior to 6.73; EA9-T15CL versions prior to 6.73; EA9-RHMI versions prior to 6.73; EA9-PGMSW versions prior to 6.73;
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/01/2022
The AutomationDirect C-more EA9 HTTP webserver vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in industrial control systems that undermines the fundamental integrity of authentication mechanisms. This issue affects multiple variants of the EA9 series including various touchscreen and controller models, all running firmware versions prior to 6.73. The vulnerability stems from an insecure transportation method for credentials, creating a pathway for attackers to intercept and exploit valid user login information. The affected devices operate within industrial environments where secure access to control systems is paramount for operational continuity and safety.
The technical implementation flaw involves the webserver's handling of HTTP authentication requests, where credentials are transmitted without proper encryption or secure transport mechanisms. This insecure credential transportation allows attackers positioned within the network to capture authentication tokens through man-in-the-middle attacks or network sniffing techniques. The vulnerability specifically targets the HTTP protocol implementation rather than the application logic itself, making it particularly dangerous as it bypasses traditional application-level security controls. The flaw aligns with CWE-312, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper handling of credentials, and represents a classic example of insecure communication protocols in industrial control systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to gain full administrative control over industrial control systems. This access could lead to unauthorized configuration changes, data manipulation, or even physical system disruption in environments where these devices control critical manufacturing processes. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in industrial settings where the integrity of control systems directly affects production safety, environmental compliance, and operational efficiency. Attackers could potentially cause significant financial losses, safety hazards, or regulatory violations by leveraging compromised credentials to manipulate system configurations or access sensitive operational data.
Organizations must implement immediate mitigation strategies including firmware updates to version 6.73 or later, which addresses the insecure credential transportation mechanism. Network segmentation and monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual authentication patterns or unauthorized access attempts. Additional security controls such as VPN implementation for remote access, mandatory secure protocols, and regular credential rotation policies should be enforced. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure communication protocols in industrial environments and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 for valid accounts and T1566 for credential harvesting through network monitoring. Regular security assessments and vulnerability management programs should be implemented to address similar issues in industrial control systems, ensuring compliance with standards such as NIST SP 800-82 for industrial control systems security and IEC 62443 for security of industrial automation and control systems.