CVE-2005-0703 in Workcentre M45
Summary
by MITRE
Xerox MicroServer Web Server for various WorkCentre products including M35/M45/M55 2.028.11.000 through 2.97.20.032 and 4.84.16.000 through 4.97.20.032, Pro 35/45/55 3.028.11.000 through 3.97.20.032, Pro 65/75/90 1.001.00.060 through 1.001.02.084, and others, has an "unauthenticated account," which allows remote attackers to modify system configuration, a different vulnerability than CVE-2005-1179.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/01/2021
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-0703 represents a critical security flaw in Xerox MicroServer Web Server implementations across multiple WorkCentre and Pro series multifunction devices. This issue affects firmware versions ranging from 2.028.11.000 through 2.97.20.032 and 4.84.16.000 through 4.97.20.032 for WorkCentre models, along with various Pro series devices with their respective firmware ranges. The vulnerability specifically manifests as an unauthenticated account that grants remote attackers unauthorized access to modify system configuration parameters. This flaw operates independently from CVE-2005-1179, indicating a distinct security weakness within the same product line. The affected devices typically serve as networked printing and scanning solutions in enterprise environments, making them attractive targets for attackers seeking persistent access to corporate networks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper authentication mechanisms within the MicroServer Web Server component of Xerox devices. The presence of an unauthenticated account suggests that the device's web interface contains a default or hidden account that lacks proper authentication requirements or has been configured with weak credentials that cannot be properly secured. This allows remote attackers to access administrative functions without providing valid credentials, potentially enabling them to modify critical system parameters including network configurations, user permissions, print job settings, and other operational parameters. The vulnerability specifically permits configuration modification rather than direct code execution or data exfiltration, making it particularly dangerous as it can fundamentally alter device behavior and potentially create backdoors or weaken overall network security posture.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it allows attackers to manipulate system configurations in ways that could compromise network integrity and availability. Remote attackers could potentially disable security features, redirect network traffic, modify print queue settings, or establish persistent access points through configuration changes that persist across device reboots. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where multifunction devices are connected to internal networks, as it provides a pathway for attackers to move laterally within the network or establish persistent access. The implications are further amplified by the fact that these devices often operate with elevated privileges and may be used for network printing, scanning, and document management functions that could contain sensitive corporate data. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues, and represents a significant weakness in the device's access control mechanisms.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including disabling unnecessary web services, implementing network segmentation to isolate affected devices, and applying firmware updates when available. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation and defense evasion techniques, as attackers could leverage it to establish persistent access and modify system configurations without detection. Network monitoring should specifically focus on unusual web server access patterns and configuration changes originating from affected devices. Additionally, administrators should consider implementing stronger access controls, disabling default accounts, and regularly auditing device configurations to identify any unauthorized modifications. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper authentication implementation in networked devices and highlights the risks associated with embedded systems that lack robust security controls, particularly in enterprise environments where such devices serve as network entry points for broader corporate infrastructure.