CVE-2005-1837 in Fortinet firewall
Summary
by MITRE
Fortinet firewall running FortiOS 2.x contains a hardcoded username with the password set to the serial number, which allows local users with console access to gain privileges.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/25/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-1837 represents a critical security flaw in Fortinet firewall appliances running FortiOS version 2.x operating systems. This issue stems from a fundamental design oversight where the system incorporates a hardcoded administrative account with a predictable password that is derived from the device's serial number. The presence of such a hardcoded credential creates an inherent weakness that directly violates security best practices and industry standards including those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves a hardcoded username-password combination that remains static across all affected devices. When local users gain console access to the firewall, they can exploit this predetermined credential to escalate their privileges and assume administrative control of the system. This flaw operates at the authentication layer and represents a classic example of insecure credential management as classified under CWE-798. The vulnerability specifically affects the local authentication mechanism, allowing unauthorized access through physical console access rather than network-based attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation to encompass complete system compromise and potential network infiltration. An attacker with physical console access can immediately assume administrative control without requiring additional authentication factors or complex exploitation techniques. This represents a severe risk to network security infrastructure since firewalls serve as critical boundary protection devices. The vulnerability enables attackers to modify firewall rules, access network traffic, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the network perimeter. According to ATT&CK framework, this scenario maps to privilege escalation techniques and credential access tactics that can lead to broader network compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action to address the hardcoded credentials. Organizations should first identify all affected Fortinet devices running FortiOS 2.x and implement firmware upgrades to versions that remove or properly configure administrative accounts. The recommended approach includes disabling or removing the hardcoded accounts entirely and implementing proper password policies that comply with NIST SP 800-63B standards for password management. Network administrators should also establish strict physical access controls to prevent unauthorized console access and implement monitoring solutions to detect suspicious authentication attempts. Additionally, regular security assessments should verify that no hardcoded credentials exist in the system configuration and that all administrative accounts follow secure credential management practices. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of avoiding hardcoded credentials in security-sensitive applications and systems as mandated by various security frameworks including ISO 27001 and CIS Controls.