Description
Moxa’s Ethernet switch is vulnerable to an authentication bypass because of flaws in its authorization mechanism. Although both client-side and back-end server verification are involved in the process, attackers can exploit weaknesses in its implementation. These vulnerabilities may enable brute-force attacks to guess valid credentials or MD5 collision attacks to forge authentication hashes, potentially compromising the security of the device.
EPSS Score:
0%
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of EUVD-2024-50752
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
The vulnerability identified in Moxa’s Ethernet switch (EUVD-2024-50752, CVE-2024-12297) involves an authentication bypass due to flaws in the authorization mechanism. The CVSS base score of 9.2 indicates a critical severity level. The vector string CVSS:4.0/AV:N/AC:L/AT:P/PR:N/UI:N/VC:H/VI:H/VA:H/SC:L/SI:L/SA:L breaks down as follows:
- AV:N (Network Vector): The vulnerability is exploitable over the network.
- AC:L (Low Complexity): The attack requires low skill or resources.
- AT:P (Physical Attack Vector): The attack requires physical access to the device.
- PR:N (No Privileges Required): No privileges are needed to exploit the vulnerability.
- UI:N (No User Interaction): No user interaction is required.
- VC:H (High Confidentiality Impact): Complete loss of confidentiality.
- VI:H (High Integrity Impact): Complete loss of integrity.
- VA:H (High Availability Impact): Complete loss of availability.
- SC:L (Low Scope Change): The impact does not extend beyond the security scope.
- SI:L (Low Scope Integrity): The integrity impact is low within the security scope.
- SA:L (Low Scope Availability): The availability impact is low within the security scope.
This high severity score underscores the critical nature of the vulnerability, which can lead to significant security breaches.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
The primary attack vectors for this vulnerability include:
- Brute-Force Attacks: Attackers can exploit the flawed authorization mechanism to guess valid credentials through brute-force methods.
- MD5 Collision Attacks: The use of MD5 hashing, which is known to be vulnerable to collision attacks, allows attackers to forge authentication hashes.
- Authentication Bypass: Direct exploitation of the authorization logic flaws to bypass authentication entirely.
Exploitation methods may involve:
- Network Scanning: Identifying vulnerable devices on the network.
- Credential Guessing: Using automated tools to perform brute-force attacks.
- Hash Collision: Crafting malicious hashes that collide with valid authentication hashes.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
The vulnerability affects multiple Moxa Ethernet switch series and versions:
- PT-510 Series: Versions 1.0 to 3.8
- EDS-508A Series: Versions 1.0 to 3.11
- PT-7728 Series: Versions 1.0 to 3.9
- PT-G7728 Series: Versions 1.0 to 6.5
- PT-508 Series: Versions 1.0 to 3.8
- PT-G510 Series: Versions 1.0 to 6.5
- PT-G503 Series: Versions 1.0 to 5.3
- PT-7828 Series: Versions 1.0 to 4.0
- PT-7528 Series: Versions 1.0 to 5.0
- PT-G7828 Series: Versions 1.0 to 6.5
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
To mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability, the following strategies are recommended:
- Patch Management: Apply the latest firmware updates provided by Moxa.
- Network Segmentation: Isolate vulnerable devices from critical network segments.
- Strong Authentication: Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) where possible.
- Monitoring and Logging: Enhance monitoring and logging to detect unusual authentication attempts.
- Access Controls: Restrict physical and network access to the devices.
- Regular Audits: Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments.
5. Impact on European Cybersecurity Landscape
The vulnerability poses a significant risk to European organizations using Moxa Ethernet switches, particularly in critical infrastructure sectors such as energy, transportation, and manufacturing. The potential for unauthorized access and control over network devices can lead to data breaches, service disruptions, and operational failures. This underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures and continuous monitoring within the European cybersecurity landscape.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
For security professionals, the following technical details are pertinent:
- Detection: Implement intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) to detect and block brute-force and collision attacks.
- Response: Develop incident response plans specific to authentication bypass vulnerabilities.
- Remediation: Ensure that all affected devices are updated to the latest firmware versions.
- Testing: Conduct penetration testing to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other network devices.
- Compliance: Ensure compliance with relevant cybersecurity standards and regulations, such as GDPR and NIS Directive.
By addressing these points, organizations can significantly reduce the risk posed by this vulnerability and enhance their overall cybersecurity posture.
Conclusion
The authentication bypass vulnerability in Moxa’s Ethernet switches (EUVD-2024-50752, CVE-2024-12297) is a critical issue that requires immediate attention. Organizations should prioritize patching affected devices, implementing robust security controls, and maintaining vigilant monitoring to protect against potential exploitation. The European cybersecurity landscape must remain proactive in addressing such vulnerabilities to safeguard critical infrastructure and sensitive data.