CVE-2021-33531 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Discover how the hard-coded credentials vulnerability in Weidmüller Industrial WLAN devices, CVE-2021-33531, can be exploited by threat actors with high severity. Find mitigation steps and affected versions here.
A hard-coded credentials vulnerability affects Weidmüller Industrial WLAN devices, allowing attackers to exploit certain utilities and execute custom scripts.
Understanding CVE-2021-33531
This CVE involves the presence of hard-coded credentials in Weidmüller Industrial WLAN devices, leading to potential security risks.
What is CVE-2021-33531?
In multiple versions of Weidmüller Industrial WLAN devices, a vulnerability exists due to the use of hard-coded credentials in certain iw_* utilities. This flaw allows attackers to create custom diagnostic scripts by leveraging an undocumented encryption password within the device operating system. By sending these scripts as a low privilege user, threat actors can trigger the vulnerability.
The Impact of CVE-2021-33531
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 8.8, indicating a high severity level. The exploitability metrics reveal that the attack complexity is low and does not require user interaction. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems are all at high risk.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-33531
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability stems from the presence of hard-coded credentials in Weidmüller Industrial WLAN devices, enabling unauthorized users to execute custom diagnostic scripts.
Affected Systems and Versions
Several versions of the IE-WL(T)-BL-AP-CL-XX and IE-WL(T)-VL-AP-CL-XX products are impacted. Notable affected versions include V1.16.18 (Build 18081617) for IE-WL(T)-BL-AP-CL-XX and V1.11.10 (Build 18122616) for IE-WL(T)-VL-AP-CL-XX.
Exploitation Mechanism
To exploit this vulnerability, attackers use the hard-coded credentials within the device operating system to craft and execute custom diagnostic scripts. These scripts can be sent while authenticated as a low privilege user.
Mitigation and Prevention
Immediate Steps to Take
Users of affected devices should apply the provided patches immediately. For IE-WL(T)-BL-AP-CL-XX, versions V1.16.21 (Build 21010513) and above contain fixes. Similarly, for IE-WL(T)-VL-AP-CL-XX, versions V1.11.13 (Build 21010513) and higher address the issue.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing strong, unique passwords, regularly updating device firmware, and restricting access to critical systems can enhance overall security posture.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that all Weidmüller Industrial WLAN devices are running the latest firmware versions to mitigate the risk posed by hard-coded credentials.