Advantech WebAccess
Plan Patch8.8ICS-CERT ICSA-20-086-01Mar 26, 2020
Attack VectorNetwork
Auth RequiredLow
ComplexityLow
User InteractionNone needed
Summary
A buffer overflow vulnerability in Advantech WebAccess version 8.4.2 and earlier allows remote code execution when exploited by an authenticated attacker. The vulnerability exists in the WebAccess interface and could allow an attacker with valid user credentials to execute arbitrary commands on the server, potentially compromising process control and monitoring functions.
What this means
What could happen
A remote attacker with valid user credentials could execute arbitrary code on the WebAccess server, potentially modifying process configurations, altering setpoints, or disrupting monitoring and control operations across connected equipment.
Who's at risk
Water utilities, electric utilities, and other critical infrastructure operators using Advantech WebAccess for SCADA/HMI monitoring and control should assess their exposure. This affects any organization running WebAccess version 8.4.2 or earlier for remote monitoring of pumps, valves, breakers, or other control equipment.
How it could be exploited
An attacker with valid engineering or operator credentials accesses the WebAccess interface over the network (port 80/443). By sending a specially crafted request, the attacker exploits a buffer overflow (CWE-121) to execute arbitrary code on the WebAccess server, gaining control of the web interface and potentially the systems it manages.
Prerequisites
- Valid WebAccess user account credentials (engineering or operator role)
- Network access to WebAccess server on TCP port 80 or 443
- WebAccess version 8.4.2 or earlier installed
Remotely exploitableRequires valid user credentialsLow attack complexityNo patch available for WebAccess versions before 8.4.4Affects critical control and monitoring systemsBuffer overflow vulnerability (CWE-121)
Exploitability
Low exploit probability (EPSS 0.8%)
Affected products (1)
ProductAffected VersionsFix Status
WebAccess:≤ 8.4.28.4.4
Remediation & Mitigation
0/5
Do now
0/4WORKAROUNDRestrict WebAccess network access to authorized engineering workstations and HMI terminals only; block direct Internet access
HARDENINGImplement network firewall rules to limit access to WebAccess ports (80, 443) from trusted IP addresses only
HARDENINGIf remote access is required, use VPN with strong authentication; do not expose WebAccess directly to the Internet
HARDENINGEnforce strong, unique passwords for all WebAccess user accounts
Schedule — requires maintenance window
0/1Patching may require device reboot — plan for process interruption
HOTFIXUpgrade WebAccess to version 8.4.4 or later (or upgrade to WebAccessNode 8.4.4 or later)
CVEs (1)
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API:
/api/v1/advisories/9f816da8-83de-40bf-ae33-1a77ac5f0365