IBM Finds Security Flaws in Visitor Check-In Systems

IBM Finds Security Flaws in Visitor Check-In Systems

“We found that you could break out of the kiosk and interact with the underlying Windows operating systems, and from there do things like drop malware or open up the database,” said Daniel Crowder, research director at the IBM X-Force Red security unit.

Researchers from IBM have found security flaws in some digital systems used in office buildings to let visitors check in and get access badges. According to the researchers, some of the devices used with these systems have flaws that could leave facilities insecure.

“We found that you could break out of the kiosk and interact with the underlying Windows operating systems, and from there do things like drop malware or open up the database,” said Daniel Crowder, research director at the IBM X-Force Red security unit.

By accessing the database, a hacker could learn who else was visiting the office—which could be sensitive information—or allow them to impersonate expected visitors to enter offices without permission.

“Knowing, for instance, that the CEO of a related company has been visiting every day for the last few weeks would be valuable intelligence to collect,” Crowder said. “Depending on what data the visitor management system stores, there may be an opportunity for identity theft as well.”

According to Crowder, these visitor management systems are mostly designed to be used without an attendant, but their deployment can vary from site to site.

Research on these visitor check-in systems was conducted by two college interns with guidance from the X-Force Red team. The researchers investigated the devices’ software, but did not probe any cloud-based visitor tracking tools.

Affected systems include Lobby Track Desktop, EasyLobby Solo, EVisitorPass, Envoy Passport and The Receptionist for iPad.

According to Crowder, IBM notified the system vendors of the vulnerabilities so that they could be patched as needed before IBM disclosed the issues.

About the Author

Jessica Davis is the Associate Content Editor for 1105 Media.

Featured

New Products

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.

  • FEP GameChanger

    FEP GameChanger

    Paige Datacom Solutions Introduces Important and Innovative Cabling Products GameChanger Cable, a proven and patented solution that significantly exceeds the reach of traditional category cable will now have a FEP/FEP construction.

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.