CVE-2022-30018 in Control Center
Summary
by MITRE • 05/19/2022
Mobotix Control Center (MxCC) through 2.5.4.5 has Insufficiently Protected Credentials, Storing Passwords in a Recoverable Format via the MxCC.ini config file. The credential storage method in this software enables an attacker/user of the machine to gain admin access to the software and gain access to recordings/recording locations.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/26/2022
The Mobotix Control Center (MxCC) vulnerability CVE-2022-30018 represents a critical security flaw in versions 2.5.4.5 and earlier where the software stores authentication credentials in an easily recoverable format within the MxCC.ini configuration file. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-522 category of Insufficiently Protected Credentials, which specifically addresses weak protection of authentication information. The flaw demonstrates poor security practices in credential management where sensitive authentication data is not properly encrypted or obfuscated, creating a direct path for unauthorized access to the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the software's configuration file storage mechanism that persists passwords in plain text or easily reversible formats. Attackers who gain access to the system can simply examine the MxCC.ini file to extract administrative credentials, bypassing all authentication mechanisms designed to protect the system. This weakness creates a privilege escalation vector where local users or attackers with file system access can immediately obtain administrative privileges and gain complete control over the Mobotix surveillance system. The configuration file approach essentially eliminates any form of credential protection, making it trivial for malicious actors to exploit.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it provides attackers with comprehensive access to video recording systems and their associated data. Once administrative access is obtained, attackers can manipulate recordings, access sensitive surveillance footage, modify system configurations, and potentially compromise the entire security infrastructure of the monitored environment. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and confidentiality of security systems, as the attacker can not only view recordings but also alter or delete them, creating a false sense of security while undermining the fundamental purpose of surveillance systems.
Organizations using Mobotix Control Center software should immediately implement mitigations including immediate patching to versions that address the credential storage vulnerability, implementing file system access controls to restrict access to the MxCC.ini configuration file, and establishing monitoring for unauthorized file access attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1566.002 - Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment, as attackers may exploit this weakness through social engineering to gain initial access to systems before leveraging the credential storage flaw. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network segmentation to limit access to surveillance systems and establish regular credential rotation practices to minimize the impact of potential exposure. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following security best practices such as those outlined in NIST SP 800-63B for authentication and credential management, which explicitly recommend against storing credentials in recoverable formats.