CVE-2000-1242 in PowerChute
Summary
by MITRE
The HTTP service in American Power Conversion (APC) PowerChute uses a default username and password, which allows remote attackers to gain system access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/06/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2000-1242 represents a critical security flaw in the American Power Conversion APC PowerChute HTTP service implementation. This issue stems from the improper configuration of authentication credentials within the power management software, specifically affecting the web-based interface that administrators use to monitor and control uninterruptible power supply systems. The default credentials remain unchanged after installation, creating an easily exploitable entry point for malicious actors who seek unauthorized access to critical infrastructure management systems. This weakness directly violates fundamental security principles and demonstrates poor security hygiene in software design and deployment practices.
The technical flaw manifests as a hardcoded authentication mechanism that fails to enforce proper credential management during the initial setup process. When the APC PowerChute service is installed, it defaults to using well-known username and password combinations that are publicly documented and easily accessible through various security databases and online resources. This configuration allows any remote attacker with basic knowledge of the system to gain administrative access without requiring any specialized tools or advanced exploitation techniques. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through standard network protocols, making it particularly dangerous in environments where the service is exposed to untrusted networks or the internet.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with complete administrative control over the power management infrastructure. This level of access enables malicious actors to manipulate power distribution systems, potentially causing service disruptions, data loss, or even physical damage to connected equipment. The implications are particularly severe in data center environments where APC PowerChute systems manage critical power infrastructure, as attackers could disable protective measures, cause power outages, or disrupt business operations. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the power management system, creating a significant risk to overall infrastructure security.
From a cybersecurity framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-798, which addresses the use of hardcoded credentials in software, and represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege and secure configuration practices. The issue also maps to ATT&CK technique T1078.004, which covers legitimate credentials obtained through default accounts, demonstrating how attackers can leverage default configurations to establish persistent access to target systems. Organizations should implement immediate remediation measures including changing default credentials, disabling unnecessary services, and implementing proper access controls. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of proper security configuration management and demonstrates how seemingly minor oversights in software design can create significant security risks. This issue serves as a foundational example of why security-by-design principles must be integrated into all phases of software development and deployment, particularly for critical infrastructure management systems.