CVE-2001-0395 in Consoleserver
Summary
by MITRE
Lightwave ConsoleServer 3200 does not disconnect users after unsuccessful login attempts, which could allow remote attackers to conduct brute force password guessing.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/31/2018
The vulnerability identified in CVE-2001-0395 affects the Lightwave ConsoleServer 3200, a network management device that provides console access to network equipment. This device operates as a critical component in network infrastructure, serving as a central point for administrators to manage and monitor various network devices through console connections. The flaw resides in the authentication mechanism of the system's login process, specifically in how it handles failed authentication attempts. Unlike properly designed systems that implement account lockout mechanisms or session timeout policies after multiple failed login attempts, the Lightwave ConsoleServer 3200 fails to terminate user sessions following unsuccessful authentication attempts. This design oversight creates a significant security weakness that directly impacts the system's resistance to credential guessing attacks.
The technical nature of this vulnerability can be categorized under CWE-307, which addresses improper restriction of excessive authentication attempts, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1110.003 for Brute Force Password Guessing. The flaw essentially allows an attacker to repeatedly attempt different username and password combinations without the system implementing any form of rate limiting or account lockout functionality. This behavior enables attackers to systematically work through password dictionaries or perform randomized password guessing attempts, with each failed attempt not resulting in session termination or account lockout. The lack of session management after failed authentication creates an environment where automated brute force tools can operate without restriction, making it significantly easier for attackers to compromise legitimate user accounts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it undermines the fundamental security posture of the network infrastructure that relies on the ConsoleServer for access management. Network administrators who depend on this system for console access to routers, switches, and other critical network equipment face increased risk of unauthorized access to their entire network infrastructure. The vulnerability particularly affects environments where network security is paramount, as it allows attackers to exploit weak passwords or default credentials through automated means. In practice, this means that an attacker with network access can potentially gain administrative privileges to network devices, leading to complete network compromise, data exfiltration, or disruption of network services. The extended time frame during which brute force attacks can be conducted without detection makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous in production environments.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require both immediate and long-term approaches to address the inherent design flaw in the ConsoleServer 3200. Organizations should implement network-level controls such as firewall rules that limit access to the ConsoleServer to trusted IP addresses only, reducing the attack surface available to remote attackers. Additionally, implementing network access control lists and intrusion detection systems can help monitor for unusual login patterns that might indicate brute force attempts. The most effective long-term solution involves upgrading to a newer version of the ConsoleServer software that properly implements account lockout mechanisms or session timeout policies after failed authentication attempts. Organizations should also enforce strong password policies, implement multi-factor authentication where possible, and conduct regular security audits to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other network infrastructure components. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper authentication design and session management in network security systems, particularly those that serve as central access points to network infrastructure.