Could Your Business Be at Risk from Faulty Moxa Devices?
If your business relies on Moxa cellular routers, secure routers, or other network security devices, it’s time to take action. Two critical security vulnerabilities have been discovered in these devices, leaving industrial networks exposed to potential cyberattacks.
Hackers can exploit these flaws to gain root-level access, allowing them to execute unauthorized commands remotely. The consequences? Anything from stolen sensitive data to complete system shutdowns.
Moxa has issued firmware updates to address the issue, but not all devices have a patch available. If your business uses faulty Moxa devices, understanding these vulnerabilities and taking immediate action is crucial to safeguarding your operations.
Understanding the Security Flaws in Faulty Moxa Devices
Moxa devices currently contain two major vulnerabilities that pose a serious security risk:
CVE-2024-9138: Hardcoded Credentials Compromise Access
- Affects 10 specific Moxa device models
- Contains hardcoded credentials, allowing hackers to log in remotely
- Enables privilege escalation, giving attackers full control
- Could result in data breaches or complete network failures
CVE-2024-9140: Unrestricted Command Injection
- Classified as “Critical” by Moxa
- Allows attackers to bypass input restrictions and run arbitrary commands
- Opens the door for OS command injections, leading to operational chaos
- Could enable hackers to shut down systems or manipulate industrial processes
If your business uses Moxa industrial routers or appliances, you must act quickly to secure your network before cybercriminals take advantage of these vulnerabilities.
How to Fix Faulty Moxa Devices and Protect Your Network
Moxa has issued firmware patches to address these security flaws. If your business depends on these devices for remote monitoring, logic controllers, data collection, or industrial control centers, take the following steps:
✅ Apply the latest firmware updates via the device management interface
✅ Follow Moxa’s official instructions for installing security patches
✅ Monitor network activity for any unusual behavior after updating
What If a Patch Isn't Available?
Unfortunately, some faulty Moxa devices don’t yet have a firmware patch. If your device is among them, you should take immediate security precautions to reduce your exposure to cyber threats.
🚨 Moxa recommends these protective measures:
- Disconnect affected devices from the internet
- Restrict SSH access to only trusted IP addresses
- Use an Intrusion Detection System (IDS) to monitor for suspicious activity
By implementing these safeguards, you can minimize the risk of cyberattacks while waiting for Moxa to release additional fixes.
Why This Security Threat Matters for Industrial Networks
Industrial networks depend on secure and reliable infrastructure to operate efficiently. A cyberattack targeting faulty Moxa devices could have severe consequences, including:
- Operational downtime leading to financial losses
- Unauthorized access to critical systems
- Data breaches affecting business continuity
- Increased compliance risks due to security failures
This incident is a stark reminder that cybersecurity isn’t just about software updates—it’s about continuous vigilance. Staying informed and proactive about firmware vulnerabilities is essential to protecting your business from unexpected threats.
FAQs About Faulty Moxa Devices and Industrial Security
1. How do I know if my Moxa device is affected?
Check Moxa’s official security advisory to see if your device model is listed. You can also review your device's firmware version and compare it with the latest updates available.
2. What happens if I don’t patch my device?
Leaving your device unpatched exposes your network to cybercriminals who could take full control, steal data, or cause operational disruptions. Hackers can remotely exploit these flaws, so acting quickly is essential.
3. Can I still use my Moxa device safely if no patch is available?
Yes, but you must follow Moxa’s security recommendations, including disconnecting the device from the internet, limiting access, and monitoring network traffic for any suspicious activity. These steps help reduce risk while waiting for a permanent fix.
Protect Your Industrial Network Before It’s Too Late
The security flaws in faulty Moxa devices are serious, but with immediate action, you can reduce the risks. Whether applying firmware updates or following Moxa’s security guidelines, protecting your industrial network should be a top priority.
Cyber threats evolve rapidly, and staying ahead of vulnerabilities is key to ensuring business continuity and operational security. Don’t wait until it’s too late—secure your network today.
Contact CTTS today for IT support and managed services in Austin, TX. Let us handle your IT so you can focus on growing your business. Visit CTTSonline.com or call us at (512) 388-5559 to get started!