CVE-2021-4228:Hard-coded TLS certificate in Lanner Inc IAC-AST2500A firmware enables MitM attacks despite HTTPS connections.

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The Lanner Inc IAC-AST2500A standard firmware version 1.00.0 contains a vulnerability (CVE-2021-4228) where a hard-coded TLS certificate is used by default. This security flaw allows malicious actors to perform Man-in-the-Middle (MitM) attacks, effectively bypassing the security that HTTPS connections are supposed to provide. When TLS certificates are hard-coded, they cannot be properly validated or rotated, creating a false sense of security while allowing attackers to intercept and potentially modify communications between users and the device.

Overview

This vulnerability (CWE-798: Use of Hard-coded Credentials) affects the Lanner Inc IAC-AST2500A Baseboard Management Controller (BMC) firmware. The BMC uses a hard-coded TLS certificate for HTTPS connections, which compromises the security model of TLS. Normally, TLS certificates provide authentication and encryption to prevent eavesdropping and tampering. However, when a certificate is hard-coded in the firmware, an attacker with knowledge of this certificate can impersonate the server and intercept all communications. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in Operational Technology (OT) and Internet of Things (IoT) environments where these devices may be deployed, as it could allow attackers to gain access to sensitive industrial control systems or other critical infrastructure.

Remediation

  1. Update to the latest firmware version if the vendor has released a patch addressing this vulnerability.
  2. If updates are not available, consider implementing network segmentation to restrict access to the affected devices.
  3. Monitor network traffic to and from these devices for suspicious activities.
  4. Consider implementing additional authentication mechanisms beyond the device's built-in security.
  5. Contact Lanner Inc. for specific remediation guidance and patch availability.
  6. If possible, disable remote management interfaces when not in use.
  7. Implement compensating controls such as VPNs or other encrypted tunnels when accessing the device remotely.

References

  1. Nozomi Networks Blog: "Vulnerabilities in BMC Firmware Affect OT/IoT Device Security (Part 1)" https://www.nozominetworks.com/blog/vulnerabilities-in-bmc-firmware-affect-ot-iot-device-security-part-1/

  2. Nozomi Networks Vulnerability Advisory for CVE-2021-4228: https://www.nozominetworks.com/labs/vulnerability-advisories/cve-2021-4228/

  3. Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE-798): Use of Hard-coded Credentials https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/798.html

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction
    Construction
  6. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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