CVE-2001-1428 in IPC@CHIP Embedded-Webserver
Summary
by MITRE
The (1) FTP and (2) Telnet services in Beck GmbH IPC@Chip are shipped with a default password, which allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2001-1428 represents a critical security flaw in network services provided by Beck GmbH's IPC@Chip platform. This issue affects both File Transfer Protocol and Telnet services that are integral components of the system's remote access capabilities. The fundamental weakness lies in the default credential configuration where these services are shipped with pre-configured passwords that remain unchanged by default. This configuration violates basic security principles and creates an immediate entry point for malicious actors seeking unauthorized system access. The vulnerability demonstrates poor security hygiene in product design and deployment practices that were prevalent in the early 2000s computing environment.
The technical implementation of this flaw stems from the service configuration process where Beck GmbH failed to enforce proper authentication mechanisms during the initial system setup. Both FTP and Telnet services operate with hardcoded credentials that are publicly documented or easily discoverable through standard security reconnaissance techniques. This default password configuration creates a persistent security risk as administrators often neglect to change these defaults during deployment, particularly in environments where rapid system provisioning is prioritized over security hardening. The vulnerability specifically aligns with CWE-798, which addresses the use of hard-coded credentials, and CWE-259, concerning the use of weak passwords. These service implementations lack proper authentication controls and do not enforce password complexity requirements or account lockout mechanisms that would mitigate automated credential guessing attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2001-1428 extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it enables attackers to establish persistent control over affected systems. Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability without requiring physical access or advanced technical skills, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where these services are exposed to external networks. Once compromised, attackers can leverage these services to conduct further reconnaissance, escalate privileges, or deploy additional malicious payloads. The vulnerability creates a pathway for attackers to perform activities consistent with the attack technique described in MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1078 - Valid Accounts, where adversaries leverage legitimate credentials to gain access to systems. The impact is particularly severe in industrial control environments where IPC@Chip systems are commonly deployed, as unauthorized access can potentially disrupt critical infrastructure operations and compromise operational technology networks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate administrative action to address the default credential exposure. System administrators must change all default passwords for both FTP and Telnet services to strong, unique credentials that meet established password complexity requirements. The recommended approach involves implementing a comprehensive password management policy that includes regular credential rotation and enforcement of strong authentication mechanisms. Organizations should disable unnecessary services such as Telnet which lacks encryption capabilities, and replace them with secure alternatives like SSH. Additionally, network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit exposure of these services to trusted networks only. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following security best practices outlined in frameworks such as NIST SP 800-123 and ISO 27001, which emphasize the need for proper system hardening and credential management procedures. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar configuration weaknesses across the entire network infrastructure.