CVE-2002-2355 in FM114P
Summary
by MITRE
Netgear FM114P firmware 1.3 wireless firewall, when configured to backup configuration information, stores DDNS (DynDNS) user name and password, MAC address filtering table and possibly other information in cleartext, which could allow local users to obtain sensitive information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/14/2024
The CVE-2002-2355 vulnerability affects the Netgear FM114P wireless firewall running firmware version 1.3, representing a significant security flaw in network device configuration management. This vulnerability stems from the device's improper handling of sensitive information during configuration backup operations, creating an exploitable condition that compromises the confidentiality of critical network credentials and access controls. The flaw demonstrates poor cryptographic practices and inadequate data protection mechanisms within embedded network security appliances, which are particularly concerning given the firewall's role in network perimeter protection.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the firmware's backup functionality storing multiple categories of sensitive information in plaintext format without any form of encryption or obfuscation. Specifically, the device stores DynDNS username and password credentials, MAC address filtering tables, and potentially other configuration data in cleartext within backup files. This design flaw directly violates fundamental security principles for credential storage and configuration management, as outlined in cybersecurity frameworks and best practices for secure system design. The vulnerability exists at the configuration persistence layer where sensitive data is written to storage without proper protection mechanisms, creating a clear path for unauthorized information disclosure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential exposure, as it provides local attackers with comprehensive access to network security controls and authentication mechanisms. An attacker with local access to the device can easily extract the backup configuration files and obtain the cleartext credentials, enabling them to establish unauthorized connections to dynamic DNS services and potentially bypass MAC address filtering controls. This creates a persistent threat vector where attackers can maintain long-term access to network resources while evading detection through normal security monitoring procedures. The vulnerability represents a classic case of insufficient access control and data protection, allowing local privilege escalation and information disclosure that could lead to complete network compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through firmware updates provided by Netgear, which would implement proper encryption for configuration data storage and transmission. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit local access to critical network devices, while establishing regular monitoring for unauthorized configuration changes. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure configuration management practices and proper data protection mechanisms within embedded systems, aligning with cybersecurity standards such as those defined in the CWE taxonomy for improper credential handling and insecure data storage. Additionally, this issue demonstrates the necessity of implementing principle of least privilege controls and regular security assessments of network infrastructure devices to prevent similar exposure scenarios.