CVE-2022-21148 in Edge Insights
Summary
by MITRE • 08/19/2022
Improper access control in the Intel(R) Edge Insights for Industrial software before version 2.6.1 may allow an authenticated user to potentially enable escalation of privilege via local access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/19/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-21148 represents a critical access control flaw within Intel Edge Insights for Industrial software versions prior to 2.6.1. This software platform serves industrial environments by providing edge computing capabilities for manufacturing and industrial automation systems. The improper access control mechanism allows authenticated users to potentially escalate their privileges through local access vectors, creating a significant security risk for industrial control systems. The vulnerability specifically affects the authorization mechanisms that govern user permissions and system resource access within the industrial edge computing environment.
Technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through local access methods where an authenticated user can leverage existing privileges to gain elevated system access. The flaw stems from insufficient validation of user permissions and inadequate enforcement of privilege boundaries within the software's access control framework. This allows malicious actors who have already established authentication credentials to potentially elevate their privileges beyond what was originally intended. The vulnerability demonstrates poor implementation of the principle of least privilege, where users should only have access to resources necessary for their specific roles. The underlying technical issue involves the software's failure to properly verify user credentials and authorization levels when attempting to perform privileged operations, creating a pathway for privilege escalation attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, potentially compromising the integrity and availability of industrial control systems. In industrial environments where Edge Insights for Industrial software operates, such a vulnerability could enable attackers to modify critical system configurations, access sensitive operational data, or disrupt industrial processes. The localized nature of the attack means that exploitation requires physical or network access to the system, but once achieved, the consequences can be severe for industrial operations. This vulnerability particularly affects manufacturing environments where system reliability and security are paramount, as unauthorized privilege escalation could lead to production disruptions, data breaches, or even physical safety hazards in automated industrial processes. The risk is amplified in environments where the software interfaces with critical industrial equipment and control systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-21148 should prioritize immediate software updates to version 2.6.1 or later, which contain the necessary access control fixes. Organizations should implement comprehensive access control policies that enforce strict user authentication and authorization procedures, ensuring that only authorized personnel have access to critical system functions. Network segmentation and monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous privilege escalation attempts, while regular security assessments should be conducted to identify potential exploitation vectors. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control issues, and represents a concern for ATT&CK technique T1068, which involves the exploitation of local privilege escalation vulnerabilities. Security teams should also consider implementing additional defensive measures such as privilege monitoring, user behavior analytics, and regular vulnerability assessments to prevent exploitation of similar access control weaknesses in industrial environments.