CVE-2000-0267 in CatOS
Summary
by MITRE
Cisco Catalyst 5.4.x allows a user to gain access to the "enable" mode without a password.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/22/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2000-0267 represents a critical security flaw in Cisco Catalyst 5.4.x network switching software that fundamentally compromises the device's authentication mechanisms. This issue affects enterprise network infrastructure by allowing unauthorized users to bypass the standard password protection required to access the privileged enable mode of the switch. The vulnerability stems from a design flaw in the software implementation where the system fails to properly enforce authentication controls during the privilege escalation process, creating an unintended access path that undermines the security posture of the network device.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control in software systems. The flaw manifests when a user attempts to transition from user mode to enable mode on the Cisco Catalyst switch running version 5.4.x. Under normal circumstances, this transition should require authentication through a valid password, but the vulnerability allows an attacker to bypass this requirement entirely. The implementation error likely occurs in the switch's command processing logic where the authentication check for privilege escalation is either omitted, incorrectly implemented, or can be circumvented through specific command sequences or input manipulation.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability presents a severe risk to network security infrastructure as it enables unauthorized individuals to gain full administrative control over the affected switches. Network administrators lose the ability to control who can access critical switch configuration commands, potentially allowing attackers to modify routing tables, disable network services, or implement man-in-the-middle attacks. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the network infrastructure by removing the fundamental authentication barrier that should protect privileged operations. This issue particularly impacts enterprise environments where network switches serve as critical components of the network backbone, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to establish persistent access or disrupt network operations.
The security implications extend beyond immediate unauthorized access, as this vulnerability can serve as a foothold for more sophisticated attacks within the network perimeter. Attackers can leverage this access to perform reconnaissance activities, map network topology, and potentially escalate their privileges to other network devices. The vulnerability also violates key security principles outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, particularly in the areas of identity management and access control. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including firmware updates to patched versions, network segmentation to limit access to affected devices, and enhanced monitoring for unauthorized access attempts. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically targeting the T1068 - Exploitation for Privilege Escalation tactic, where attackers exploit software flaws to gain elevated system access without proper authentication. Given the age of this vulnerability and its widespread impact on network infrastructure, organizations should prioritize remediation efforts and conduct thorough security assessments to identify any other potential authentication bypass vulnerabilities in their network device inventory.