CVE-2001-1065 in CBOS
Summary
by MITRE
Web-based configuration utility in Cisco 600 series routers running CBOS 2.0.1 through 2.4.2ap binds itself to port 80 even when web-based configuration services are disabled, which could leave the router open to attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/04/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-1065 affects Cisco 600 series routers operating with CBOS software versions 2.0.1 through 2.4.2ap, representing a significant security flaw in the network infrastructure's web management interface. This issue stems from the improper configuration of the web-based configuration utility that remains active on port 80 regardless of whether web services have been explicitly disabled by administrators. The persistent binding to the standard HTTP port creates an unexpected attack surface that adversaries can exploit to gain unauthorized access to router configurations. This vulnerability directly violates fundamental security principles of least privilege and defense in depth, as the router continues to expose a potentially vulnerable service even when configured to disable it.
The technical implementation flaw resides in the router's service management architecture where the web configuration utility fails to properly respect administrative settings regarding service activation. When administrators disable web-based configuration services through the router's management interface, the underlying software continues to bind to port 80, creating a persistent listening socket that accepts incoming connections. This behavior represents a failure in proper resource management and service lifecycle handling within the CBOS operating system. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-692, which addresses incomplete protection mechanisms in software implementations, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage. The flaw essentially creates a false sense of security for administrators who believe they have disabled web services but remain unaware that the port remains accessible to external attackers.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with potential entry points for more sophisticated attacks. An attacker who discovers the open port 80 can attempt various exploitation techniques including credential brute force attacks, web application exploitation, or even command injection if the web interface contains vulnerable input handling mechanisms. The vulnerability becomes particularly dangerous in environments where routers are accessible from untrusted networks or when administrative credentials are weak or default. Network reconnaissance tools can easily identify these devices during port scanning activities, making them prime targets for automated exploitation campaigns. This vulnerability essentially undermines the router's ability to serve as a secure network boundary device, potentially allowing attackers to gain full administrative control over the network infrastructure and manipulate routing tables, firewall rules, or other critical network parameters.
Effective mitigation strategies must address both immediate remediation and long-term security posture improvements. The primary solution involves upgrading affected Cisco 600 series routers to CBOS versions that have resolved this issue, typically through official firmware updates provided by Cisco. Network administrators should also implement immediate network segmentation measures such as firewall rules that block external access to port 80 on these devices, effectively creating a network boundary that prevents unauthorized access. Additionally, implementing network access control lists and disabling unnecessary services at the network level provides defense in depth. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all affected devices and establish monitoring procedures to detect unauthorized access attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security audits and proper configuration management practices, ensuring that administrative settings are properly enforced and that security controls are validated through periodic testing and verification.