CVE-2002-2373 in TCP
Summary
by MITRE
The default configuration of the TCP/IP printer configuration utility in Apple LaserWriter 12/640 PS printer contains a blank Telnet password, which allows remote attackers to gain access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/14/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2002-2373 represents a critical security flaw in the Apple LaserWriter 12/640 PS printer's network configuration utility. This issue stems from the printer's default TCP/IP configuration that fails to properly secure the Telnet service, leaving it accessible with an empty password field. The vulnerability exists within the printer's embedded network stack and configuration management system, specifically affecting the printer's ability to securely manage remote administrative access through the Telnet protocol.
This security weakness creates a significant attack surface for malicious actors who can exploit the blank Telnet password to establish unauthorized remote connections to the printer's management interface. The flaw allows attackers to gain full administrative control over the printer's configuration settings, potentially enabling them to modify network parameters, change print queue settings, or even redirect print jobs to malicious destinations. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects the printer's built-in network management capabilities that are designed to allow remote administration but are improperly configured by default.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it can enable attackers to perform various malicious activities including printer misconfiguration, data interception from print jobs, or even use the printer as a pivot point for further attacks within a network. The vulnerability affects the printer's integrity and availability, as attackers can potentially disrupt print services or modify critical network settings that may impact other networked devices. This weakness demonstrates poor security by design principles in the printer's embedded system architecture.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-798, which addresses the use of hard-coded credentials in software systems, and represents a classic example of insecure default configurations that fail to follow the principle of least privilege. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving credential access through default credentials and remote service exploitation. Organizations using these printers face potential risks including unauthorized network access, data breaches from intercepted print jobs, and possible use of the compromised printer as a launch point for lateral movement within corporate networks.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate configuration changes to disable the Telnet service or implement strong password policies for the printer's administrative interface. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to printer management ports, while regular security audits should verify that default configurations have been properly hardened. The printer firmware should be updated where possible, and organizations should consider disabling unnecessary network services entirely to reduce the attack surface. Additionally, network monitoring should be implemented to detect unauthorized access attempts to printer management interfaces, and security awareness training should be provided to IT staff regarding the importance of securing networked printer devices.