CVE-2024-22388 in iCLASS SE
Summary
by MITRE • 02/07/2024
Certain configuration available in the communication channel for encoders could expose sensitive data when reader configuration cards are programmed. This data could include credential and device administration keys.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/18/2024
This vulnerability exists within the communication protocols of encoder systems where specific configuration parameters are exposed during the programming of reader configuration cards. The flaw stems from inadequate data protection mechanisms during the encoding process, allowing sensitive information to be transmitted or stored in an unencrypted or insufficiently protected state. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects the fundamental security infrastructure of access control systems, where the exposure of credential and device administration keys could lead to complete system compromise. The issue manifests when encoder configuration channels are improperly secured, creating potential attack vectors for unauthorized parties to intercept or access sensitive administrative data. This represents a critical weakness in the security architecture of physical access control systems, as the exposure of administrative keys would enable attackers to modify access permissions, create new credentials, or disable security measures entirely.
The technical implementation flaw involves the lack of proper encryption or authentication mechanisms within the communication channel used for programming reader configuration cards. When these cards are programmed, the system fails to adequately protect sensitive data elements including cryptographic keys, administrative credentials, and potentially other confidential information. The vulnerability can be exploited through man-in-the-middle attacks or by intercepting data transmissions during the configuration process, particularly when systems do not implement proper key management or secure communication protocols. This weakness aligns with CWE-312 (Sensitive Data Exposure) and CWE-310 (Cryptographic Issues) categories, as it involves both the exposure of sensitive information and potential cryptographic failures in data protection mechanisms. The attack surface is particularly broad given that many encoder systems are deployed in critical infrastructure environments where unauthorized access could have severe operational and security implications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure to encompass complete compromise of access control systems. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain administrative privileges over the entire access control infrastructure, enabling them to modify access rules, create unauthorized user accounts, or disable security measures. The exposure of device administration keys would allow attackers to bypass normal authentication procedures and gain direct control over the encoder systems themselves. This vulnerability affects systems where the communication channel between encoders and configuration tools is not properly secured, potentially impacting facilities ranging from corporate offices to government installations and critical infrastructure sites. The long-term consequences include potential data breaches, unauthorized physical access, and the need for comprehensive security audits and key rotation across affected systems. Organizations may face regulatory compliance issues and significant operational disruption when systems are compromised through this vulnerability.
Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing robust encryption protocols for all communication channels involving encoder configuration and credential programming. Organizations must ensure that all data transmission between encoders and configuration tools is protected using industry-standard encryption mechanisms such as TLS 1.3 or equivalent security protocols. The implementation of secure key management practices, including regular key rotation and secure storage of administrative credentials, is essential to reduce the impact of potential exposure. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit who can access the configuration channels and programming interfaces. Additionally, organizations should conduct regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in their access control infrastructure. The solution aligns with ATT&CK technique T1547.001 (Registry Run Keys / Startup Folder) and T1071.004 (Application Layer Protocol: DNS) when considering lateral movement and data exfiltration potential. System administrators should also implement monitoring and alerting mechanisms to detect unauthorized access attempts or unusual configuration activities that could indicate exploitation of this vulnerability.