CVE-2004-0311 in AP9606
Summary
by MITRE
American Power Conversion (APC) Web/SNMP Management SmartSlot Card 3.0 through 3.0.3 and 3.21 are shipped with a default password of TENmanUFactOryPOWER, which allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/13/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2004-0311 represents a critical security flaw in American Power Conversion's APC Web/SNMP Management SmartSlot Card devices. This issue affects specific firmware versions including 3.0 through 3.0.3 and 3.21, where the device ships with a hardcoded default password that poses significant operational risks to network infrastructure security. The default credential TENmanUFactOryPOWER creates an easily exploitable entry point for malicious actors seeking unauthorized access to critical power management systems. This vulnerability directly impacts the security posture of data centers and network operations centers that rely on APC equipment for power monitoring and control functions.
The technical nature of this flaw aligns with CWE-798, which identifies the use of hard-coded credentials as a significant security weakness. The vulnerability exists at the authentication layer where the device fails to implement proper credential management mechanisms. Attackers can leverage this default password to establish remote connections to the management interface, potentially gaining full administrative control over the power distribution units. This allows unauthorized individuals to manipulate power settings, monitor energy consumption, and potentially cause service disruptions through power cycling or other malicious actions. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through network protocols including SNMP and web-based management interfaces.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it creates a persistent security risk for organizations relying on APC equipment for critical infrastructure management. Network administrators who fail to change default credentials face potential compromise of their entire power infrastructure, which could lead to service outages, data loss, or physical damage to network equipment. The vulnerability particularly affects environments where physical security is inadequate, as remote exploitation does not require specialized tools or complex attack vectors. Organizations may experience cascading failures if attackers use compromised power management systems to target other connected infrastructure components, creating potential for widespread operational disruption.
Security mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate credential changes and implementation of robust authentication policies for all network management interfaces. Organizations must conduct comprehensive inventory audits to identify all affected APC devices and ensure default passwords are changed to strong, unique credentials. The implementation of network segmentation and access control measures can help limit the potential impact if credentials are compromised. Additionally, regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should include verification of default credentials across all network management interfaces. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of following security best practices including the principle of least privilege and mandatory credential rotation as outlined in various cybersecurity frameworks including the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and ISO 27001 standards.