CVE-2024-8888 in Q-SMT
Summary
by MITRE • 09/18/2024
An attacker with access to the network where CIRCUTOR Q-SMT is located in its firmware version 1.0.4, could steal the tokens used on the web, since these have no expiration date to access the web application without restrictions. Token theft can originate from different methods such as network captures, locally stored web information, etc.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/02/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-8888 affects the CIRCUTOR Q-SMT device running firmware version 1.0.4, presenting a critical security flaw in the web application authentication mechanism. This weakness stems from the implementation of persistent tokens without expiration controls, creating an environment where unauthorized actors can maintain indefinite access to the system. The vulnerability represents a significant deviation from established security practices and demonstrates poor token management principles that directly contradict industry standards for web application security.
The technical flaw manifests through the absence of time-based token expiration mechanisms within the device's web interface. When users authenticate to the CIRCUTOR Q-SMT system, they receive tokens that remain valid indefinitely, creating a persistent access vector that persists beyond normal session lifecycles. This design flaw allows attackers to capture valid tokens through various means including network packet captures, browser storage inspection, or even social engineering techniques that result in token theft. The lack of token rotation or automatic invalidation mechanisms provides attackers with sustained access privileges that should have been limited to temporary session durations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, creating potential for extended reconnaissance, data exfiltration, and system compromise. Attackers can leverage stolen tokens to perform administrative functions, modify system configurations, access sensitive operational data, or conduct further attacks within the network perimeter. The persistent nature of these tokens means that even after initial detection and remediation efforts, attackers can continue to maintain access as long as they retain valid token copies. This vulnerability directly impacts the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system, potentially leading to operational disruption and regulatory compliance violations.
Security controls and mitigation strategies should focus on implementing proper token expiration mechanisms, enforcing session timeout policies, and establishing token rotation protocols. Organizations should consider implementing time-based token validation, automatic session invalidation upon inactivity, and multi-factor authentication requirements for administrative access. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-613, which addresses "Insufficient Session Expiration" and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability enables techniques such as credential access through token theft and persistence mechanisms that allow attackers to maintain long-term access to the compromised system, making it a critical concern for industrial control systems security.