CVE-2004-1591 in SP916bM
Summary
by MITRE
The web interface for Micronet Wireless Broadband Router SP916BM running firmware before 1.9 08/04/2004 resets the password to the default password when the router is shut off, which could allow remote attackers to gain access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/22/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2004-1591 affects the Micronet Wireless Broadband Router SP916BM model, specifically when operating with firmware versions prior to 1.9 released on 08/04/2004. This security flaw represents a critical design weakness in the router's web administration interface that fundamentally compromises the device's authentication security model. The vulnerability stems from the router's improper handling of password persistence during power cycle events, creating a persistent backdoor access vector that adversaries can exploit to gain unauthorized administrative control.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the router's failure to maintain the configured administrative password across system shutdown and restart cycles. When the device undergoes a power-off event, the system resets the administrative password to its factory default value, effectively nullifying any custom security configurations that users may have implemented. This behavior violates fundamental security principles of credential persistence and demonstrates a lack of proper state management within the router's firmware architecture. The flaw operates at the system level rather than at the network protocol level, making it particularly insidious as it does not require network-based exploitation techniques.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant risk for network administrators and end users who rely on the router for network security. The remote attack vector means that an attacker can potentially gain access to the router's administrative interface without requiring physical presence or prior authentication credentials. This vulnerability directly impacts the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the network infrastructure by allowing unauthorized parties to modify router configurations, implement malicious network policies, or establish persistent access points within the network. The security implications extend beyond simple password reset to encompass potential man-in-the-middle attacks, network traffic interception, and complete network compromise.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control mechanisms, and demonstrates a failure in privilege management and credential persistence. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this flaw maps to techniques involving credential access and privilege escalation, specifically targeting the T1110 credential access tactic. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it requires minimal technical expertise to exploit, making it attractive to both skilled attackers and automated exploitation tools. Network security professionals should recognize this as a critical vulnerability that requires immediate remediation through firmware updates.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize the immediate installation of firmware version 1.9 or later, which addresses the password reset behavior. Network administrators should also implement additional security controls including network segmentation, regular security audits, and monitoring for unauthorized configuration changes. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper firmware lifecycle management and the necessity of conducting security assessments on network infrastructure devices. Organizations should establish procedures for regular firmware updates and maintain inventory tracking of all network devices to ensure timely patch deployment and reduce the window of exposure to known vulnerabilities.