CVE-2005-1553 in Digital Surveillance System
Summary
by MITRE
GeoVision Digital Video Surveillance System 6.04, 6.1 and 7.0 uses a weak encryption scheme to encrypt passwords, which allows remote attackers to obtain the password via sniffing.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/23/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-1553 affects the GeoVision Digital Video Surveillance System versions 6.04, 6.1, and 7.0, representing a significant security weakness in the authentication mechanisms of video surveillance infrastructure. This issue stems from the implementation of a weak encryption scheme that fails to provide adequate protection for stored or transmitted passwords within the surveillance system architecture. The flaw specifically manifests in the system's inability to properly secure authentication credentials, creating an exploitable condition that compromises the overall security posture of the video surveillance network. The vulnerability is particularly concerning given the critical nature of surveillance systems in both enterprise and public security environments where unauthorized access could lead to complete system compromise and data exposure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the use of insufficient cryptographic algorithms or improperly configured encryption mechanisms that fail to meet contemporary security standards for password protection. When passwords are transmitted or stored within the GeoVision system, they are processed through an encryption method that can be readily reversed or decrypted through network sniffing operations. This weakness directly violates fundamental security principles outlined in industry standards such as the Common Weakness Enumeration CWE-327, which addresses the use of weak or broken cryptographic algorithms. The system's failure to implement robust encryption protocols creates a clear pathway for attackers to intercept and decode authentication credentials during network transmission, effectively bypassing the intended security controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it represents a critical failure in the defense-in-depth strategy of video surveillance systems. Remote attackers who can successfully intercept network traffic can obtain valid authentication credentials and gain unauthorized access to the surveillance system, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or even the ability to manipulate or disable surveillance operations. The vulnerability creates an attack surface that aligns with tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the credential access and lateral movement phases, where adversaries can leverage stolen credentials to expand their access within the network environment. This weakness particularly affects organizations that rely on video surveillance systems for security monitoring, as it undermines the trust model that these systems are designed to provide.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including network segmentation to isolate surveillance systems from general network traffic, deployment of network monitoring tools to detect potential credential interception attempts, and implementation of secure communication protocols such as TLS encryption for all system communications. The recommended approach aligns with security best practices outlined in NIST Special Publication 800-53 and other cybersecurity frameworks that emphasize the importance of strong authentication mechanisms and secure communication channels. Additionally, system administrators should consider implementing network intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious traffic patterns that may indicate credential sniffing activities, and establish regular security audits to identify and remediate similar cryptographic weaknesses in other system components. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of cryptographic strength in security implementations and serves as a reminder of the need for regular security assessments and updates to prevent exploitation of known weaknesses.