CVE-2005-2584 in ADSL-FR4II router
Summary
by MITRE
The web administration interface in Mentor ADSL-FR4II router running firmware 2.00.0111 does not set a default password, which allows local users to gain access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/30/2017
The CVE-2005-2584 vulnerability represents a critical authentication flaw in the Mentor ADSL-FR4II router firmware version 2.00.0111, exposing the device's web administration interface to unauthorized local access. This vulnerability stems from the absence of a default password configuration within the router's administrative web interface, creating an inherent security weakness that directly violates fundamental security principles of access control. The flaw specifically affects the router's web-based management system, which is typically used by administrators to configure network settings, manage user accounts, and monitor device performance.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the router's web server component failing to enforce mandatory authentication before granting access to administrative functions. When users attempt to access the router's web interface, they are presented with a login screen that either lacks default credentials or fails to properly initialize authentication mechanisms. This design flaw allows any local user with access to the device to bypass authentication entirely and gain full administrative privileges without requiring any legitimate credentials. The vulnerability exists at the application layer of the network stack, specifically within the web application serving the administrative interface, and represents a classic case of insufficient authentication mechanisms.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates a significant risk for network security and device integrity. Local users who can access the router can perform administrative functions including but not limited to changing network configurations, modifying firewall rules, accessing sensitive network data, and potentially installing malicious firmware or software. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the network infrastructure, as unauthorized access could lead to complete network compromise, data exfiltration, or service disruption. The impact extends beyond individual device compromise to potentially affect entire network segments if the router serves as a gateway or central point of network control. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-259, which addresses "Use of Hard-coded Password" and represents a failure in implementing proper authentication mechanisms.
The exploitation of this vulnerability typically requires minimal technical skill and can be performed by any local user with access to the device, making it particularly dangerous in shared or unsecured environments. The attack surface is limited to local access but the potential impact is significant due to the administrative privileges that can be gained. Network administrators should consider this vulnerability in relation to ATT&CK framework techniques such as T1078 for Valid Accounts and T1566 for Phishing, as unauthorized local access can lead to broader compromise through privilege escalation. The vulnerability also demonstrates poor security practices in embedded device development, where default configurations should always include strong authentication mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2005-2584 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from the manufacturer or third-party security vendors. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit local access to critical devices and establish proper access control policies for administrative interfaces. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should include verification of default credential configurations in network devices. The recommended approach involves disabling unnecessary services, implementing strong password policies, and ensuring that all administrative interfaces require proper authentication before access. Additionally, network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unauthorized access attempts to administrative interfaces, and device access should be restricted to authorized personnel only through proper identity and access management controls. This vulnerability highlights the importance of secure device configuration practices and the need for comprehensive security testing of network infrastructure components.