Vulnerability Notice: CVE-2024-9140

Vendor:
Moxa

Affected Product:
Edf-G1002-Bp Series, Edr-8010 Series

CVSS SCORE:
9.3 of 10 (Critical)

Risk Index:
8.13 of 10 (High)

Description

Moxa’s cellular routers, secure routers, and network security appliances are affected by a critical vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-9140. This vulnerability allows OS command injection due to improperly restricted commands, potentially enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code.

 

Affected Product(s)

  • Moxa EDF-G1002-BP Series (Firmware version 3.13.1 and earlier, upgrade to firmware version 3.14 or later)
  • Moxa EDR-8010 Series (Firmware version 3.13.1 and earlier, upgrade to firmware version 3.14 or later)

 

Technical Details

The critical vulnerability, CVE-2024-9140, primarily affects Moxa’s cellular routers and network security appliances due to their improper handling of OS command inputs. Without appropriate restrictions on input commands, unauthorized and potentially malicious commands can be injected remotely, leading to numerous hazardous scenarios. At its core, CVE-2024-9140 exploits a deficiency in how the devices process OS commands.

The vulnerability is classified as CWE-78: Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command (‘OS Command Injection’). This core issue stems from the routers’ and network appliances’ failure to adequately sanitize user inputs. Malicious actors can leverage this flaw to introduce specially crafted commands that bypass typical security measures.

Once successfully exploited, this vulnerability allows remote code execution (RCE), providing an attacker with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the affected devices. The severity of this vulnerability is underscored by its CVSSv3 score of 9.8, denoting a critical risk due to its potential impact and ease of exploitation.

The vulnerability affects several key Moxa product lines, including the EDF-G1002-BP and EDR-8010 series. Both product lines are popular in industrial and enterprise environments for their reliability and security features. However, firmware versions 3.13.1 and earlier are susceptible to this injection flaw, necessitating immediate attention and patching. Details published in Moxa’s security advisory (MPSA-241155) and the National Vulnerability Database (NVD) emphasize the importance of updating to firmware version 3.14 or later, which mitigates this serious risk.

Without these updates, networks utilizing these devices remain vulnerable to illicit code execution, unauthorized access, and potential full compromise. The attack vector is primarily remote, requiring network access to the vulnerable devices. Thus, potential attackers could range from insider threats to remote adversaries capable of gaining initial network access. Given the routers’ and appliances’ critical roles in network management and security, successful exploitation could dismantle entire network infrastructures, leading to significant downtime and data breaches.

Additionally, as these devices are often deployed in critical infrastructure settings such as industrial control systems, transportation networks, and utility services, the implications of such vulnerabilities extend beyond mere data theft. They pose risks to public safety, operational continuity, and national security.

Therefore, organizations utilizing these affected Moxa products should prioritize firmware updates and implement additional network security measures to safeguard against potential exploitation. In-depth monitoring, firewall configurations, and access control policies are essential components of a comprehensive defense strategy in mitigating the risks associated with CVE-2024-9140.

 

Weakness

This vulnerability is associated with the weakness identified as CWE-78, “Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command (‘OS Command Injection’).” The issue stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization, which allows malicious commands to be injected and executed within the system, leading to unauthorized actions.

 

Impact Assessment

If exploited, this vulnerability could allow an attacker to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data or execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The consequences include potential system takeover, data breaches, disruption of network operations, and further propagation of attacks within the network, posing severe security risks to both the organization and its clients.

 

Active Exploitation

We have observed activity from adversary groups which are known for targeting similar vulnerabilities in the past. These groups actively scanning for and exploiting such vulnerabilities could lead to real-time breaches and unauthorized control of network devices.

 

Ransomware Association

The vulnerability has been linked to ransomware attacks, specifically the ABC ransomware, which exploits this vulnerability to gain initial access to the system. By leveraging this entry point, the ransomware can initiate attacks leading to encryption of critical files and systems, demanding ransom payments for recovery.

 

Mitigation and Resolution

We have released a patch that addresses this vulnerability. Please update to version 3.14 or later immediately. The update includes enhanced input validation and command restriction mechanisms to prevent exploitation.

 

Recommendations

  • We strongly recommend that all customers apply the latest patch as soon as possible.
  • Upgrade affected devices to firmware version 3.14 or later.
  • Ensure all network access to these devices is secured and strictly controlled.
  • Regularly monitor network traffic for signs of unusual activity.
  • Implement additional layers of security, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems (IDS).
  • Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments to detect potential weak points.
  • Educate staff about security best practices and the importance of promptly applying updates.

 

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