CVE-2005-2914 in WRT54G
Summary
by MITRE
ezconfig.asp in Linksys WRT54G router 3.01.03, 3.03.6, non-default configurations of 2.04.4, and possibly other versions, does not use an authentication initialization function, which allows remote attackers to obtain encrypted configuration information and, if the key is known, modify the configuration.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/10/2019
The vulnerability described in CVE-2005-2914 affects the ezconfig.asp web interface component of Linksys WRT54G wireless routers across multiple firmware versions including 3.01.03, 3.03.6, and non-default configurations of 2.04.4. This represents a critical security flaw that undermines the fundamental authentication mechanisms protecting router configuration interfaces. The vulnerability stems from the absence of proper authentication initialization within the ezconfig.asp script, which serves as a web-based configuration tool for managing router settings through a browser interface.
The technical flaw manifests as a failure to implement proper access control measures within the web application layer of the router's firmware. When users access the ezconfig.asp page, the system does not require valid authentication credentials before granting access to configuration data. This design oversight creates an unauthenticated access point that allows remote attackers to bypass normal security controls. The vulnerability specifically impacts the router's configuration management interface, where sensitive information including encrypted configuration data can be accessed without proper authorization.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to network security and device integrity. Remote attackers who discover the vulnerable interface can extract encrypted configuration information, potentially including network credentials, firewall rules, and other sensitive settings. The impact extends beyond simple information disclosure when attackers have knowledge of the encryption keys used by the router, as they can then modify the configuration to gain persistent access or disrupt network operations. This vulnerability directly violates security principles of authentication and authorization, creating a backdoor for unauthorized access to network infrastructure.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues in software systems, and represents a classic example of weak access control mechanisms in network device management interfaces. From an attack methodology standpoint, this flaw maps to ATT&CK technique T1078.004, which involves legitimate credentials obtained through exploitation of remote services. The affected routers operate with default configurations that may not adequately secure administrative interfaces, making them particularly vulnerable to automated scanning and exploitation. Network administrators should consider this vulnerability as part of a broader class of issues affecting embedded systems and network appliances where web-based management interfaces lack proper authentication controls.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate firmware updates to versions that properly implement authentication mechanisms, network segmentation to isolate router management interfaces, and implementation of network access control measures such as firewall rules that restrict access to management ports. Additionally, organizations should conduct vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially affected devices within their network infrastructure and ensure that all management interfaces require proper authentication before granting access to sensitive configuration data. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices in embedded systems and the necessity of implementing robust authentication mechanisms even in devices that may seem to have limited attack surfaces.