CVE-2024-22079 in G5 Digital Fault Recorder
Summary
by MITRE • 03/20/2024
An issue was discovered in Elspec G5 digital fault recorder versions 1.1.4.15 and before. Directory traversal can occur via the system logs download mechanism.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/06/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-22079 affects Elspec G5 digital fault recorder devices running firmware versions 1.1.4.15 and earlier. This issue represents a directory traversal flaw that specifically impacts the system logs download functionality of the device. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the download mechanism, allowing unauthorized access to files and directories outside the intended scope of the application. Such directory traversal vulnerabilities are particularly concerning in industrial control systems where device security is paramount for operational continuity and safety.
The technical implementation of this flaw involves the system logs download feature failing to properly sanitize user-supplied input parameters. When a user attempts to download system logs through the device interface, the application processes the requested file path without adequate validation or filtering. This allows an attacker to manipulate the file path parameter to traverse directories beyond the intended logging directory. The vulnerability specifically enables access to sensitive system files, configuration data, and potentially other system resources that should remain protected from unauthorized access. The flaw operates at the application layer and can be exploited through network-based attacks without requiring physical access to the device.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends significantly within industrial environments where Elspec G5 devices are deployed. An attacker exploiting this directory traversal vulnerability could gain access to critical system information including configuration files, user credentials, system logs from other applications, and potentially sensitive operational data. In the context of power grid monitoring and industrial automation systems, such unauthorized access could lead to information disclosure, system compromise, and potential disruption of critical infrastructure operations. The vulnerability undermines the device's security posture and could enable more sophisticated attacks such as privilege escalation or lateral movement within the network. According to the CWE database, this corresponds to CWE-22 Directory Traversal vulnerability, which is classified as a high-risk issue due to its potential for unauthorized information access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate firmware updates from Elspec to address the directory traversal flaw in the system logs download mechanism. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit access to the device to authorized personnel only. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by restricting the download functionality to only necessary users and implementing proper input validation. Additionally, monitoring and logging of download activities should be enhanced to detect suspicious access patterns. Organizations should also consider implementing network intrusion detection systems that can identify attempts to exploit directory traversal vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1071.004 Application Layer Protocol: DNS and T1566.001 Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment, as attackers may exploit this vulnerability to gain initial access or escalate privileges within compromised systems. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other industrial control system components and ensure comprehensive protection against similar attack vectors.