External risk intelligence

Moxa NPort Authentication Bypass Vulnerability.

CVE advisorySeverity: CRITICAL (CVSS 9.8)

CVE-2016-9366

Certain Moxa NPort devices are susceptible to an authentication bypass vulnerability. Attackers can exploit this by using brute force to determine parameters, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control of industrial systems. This poses a business risk by impacting operations and data security.

3Halo Surface Signal

Moxa Nport 5100 Series Firmware

2.5 and earlier3.5 and earlier2.7 and earlier3.10 and earlier3.6 and earlier1.2 and earlier1.1 and earlier2.3 and earlier1.13 and earlier

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2016-9366

The affected devices are serial-to-ethernet converters typically used in industrial or enterprise operational technology (OT) environments. While these are network-connected, they are generally intended for internal management and communication rather than public internet exposure. However, they are occasionally misconfigured or mistakenly exposed to the public internet in some deployments.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

This vulnerability affects Moxa NPort devices. The flaw allows attackers to bypass authentication by determining necessary parameters through brute force. This can lead to unauthorized access to critical systems and sensitive data, posing a significant business risk.

  • Vulnerable Moxa NPort devices
  • Authentication bypass via brute force
  • Unauthorized system access

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

Exploitation of this vulnerability allows an unauthorized actor to bypass authentication mechanisms on affected Moxa NPort devices. This is achieved by systematically attempting different combinations of authentication parameters. Successful bypass grants the attacker access to the device's configuration and control functions.

  • Network exposure required.
  • Attacker attempts authentication bypass.
  • Control and data access gained.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability allows unauthorized individuals to bypass authentication by guessing necessary parameters. This could lead to unauthorized access and control over critical industrial network devices. The impact could be significant disruption to operations if an attacker gains control of these devices.

  • Attackers with low skill can exploit.
  • No special access conditions required.
  • High business risk and urgency.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

An attacker may bypass authentication on affected Moxa devices by exploiting a brute-force vulnerability. This could allow unauthorized access to the device and potentially compromise connected systems. Organizations should take immediate steps to identify and secure these devices.

  • Find affected Moxa NPort devices.
  • Reduce exposure or isolate risk.
  • Fix, verify, and monitor.

Frequently asked questions

What are Moxa NPort devices and their role in network infrastructure?

Moxa NPort devices are serial-to-ethernet converters. They are frequently used in industrial and enterprise settings to connect devices that use serial communication, like sensors or machinery, to an Ethernet network. This connection enables remote monitoring and control capabilities for these serial devices.

What is the weakness of CVE-2016-9366 in Moxa NPort devices?

CVE-2016-9366 describes an authentication bypass vulnerability. It is classified under CWE-307, which relates to the Restriction of Operations Within Bounds. This means an attacker can exploit how the device handles operations to circumvent its security measures.

How can an attacker exploit the authentication bypass in Moxa NPort devices?

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by using brute-force methods to discover the necessary parameters required to bypass the device's authentication. This process involves systematically trying different combinations until the correct ones are found, granting unauthorized access.

What is the relevance of CVE-2016-9366 for industrial control systems?

This vulnerability poses a significant risk to industrial control systems because it allows unauthorized individuals to bypass authentication on Moxa NPort devices, which are often critical components in operational technology environments. Successful exploitation could lead to disruption of operations or unauthorized control over industrial processes. The Halo Surface Signal indicates this is a 'Possible' threat due to the nature of these devices in OT environments.

What steps should be taken to address the Moxa NPort authentication bypass vulnerability?

Organizations should identify all Moxa NPort devices within their network that may be affected. It is recommended to reduce the exposure of these devices or isolate any identified risks. Applying available fixes, verifying the remediation, and continuous monitoring are crucial steps to secure these systems.

References