CVE-2022-36554 in HWL-2511-SS
Summary
by MITRE • 08/30/2022
A command injection vulnerability in the CLI (Command Line Interface) implementation of Hytec Inter HWL-2511-SS v1.05 and below allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands with root privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/10/2022
The command injection vulnerability identified in CVE-2022-36554 affects the Hytec Inter HWL-2511-SS device firmware version 1.05 and earlier, presenting a critical security risk that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands with root privileges. This vulnerability specifically resides within the command line interface implementation of the device, making it a direct attack vector against the system's core administrative functionality. The flaw represents a severe weakness in the device's input validation mechanisms, allowing malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary commands through the CLI interface.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-77, which describes command injection flaws where untrusted data is incorporated into command strings without proper sanitization or escaping. This allows attackers to manipulate the command execution flow by injecting malicious command sequences that bypass normal security controls. The vulnerability exists because the CLI implementation fails to properly validate or sanitize user input before incorporating it into system commands, creating a direct pathway for privilege escalation attacks. Attackers can exploit this weakness to gain root access and execute commands with the highest possible system privileges, effectively compromising the entire device.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows attackers to completely compromise the affected device, potentially leading to unauthorized access to network resources, data exfiltration, or use of the device as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. The root privilege escalation capability means that attackers can modify system configurations, install malicious software, or disable security features. This vulnerability particularly affects industrial control systems and network infrastructure devices where the HWL-2511-SS model is deployed, potentially compromising critical network operations and creating persistent backdoors for attackers. The implications extend beyond individual device compromise to potential network-wide security breaches.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate firmware updates from Hytec Inter to address the command injection flaw, as this represents the most effective defense against exploitation. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit exposure of affected devices to untrusted networks. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious CLI command executions and unusual administrative activities. The ATT&CK framework classification for this vulnerability would include techniques such as T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter and T1548.001 for abuse of privileges, reflecting the attack patterns that leverage this specific vulnerability. Additionally, implementing input validation controls, using parameterized commands, and employing principle of least privilege principles can help reduce the risk of exploitation. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially affected devices in their network infrastructure that may share similar implementation flaws.