CVE-2005-2915 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, uses weak encryption (XOR encoding with a fixed byte mask) for configuration information, which could allow attackers to decrypt the information and possibly re-encrypt it in conjunction with CVE-2005-2914.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/10/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-2915 affects the Linksys WRT54G router firmware versions 3.01.03, 3.03.6, and non-default configurations of 2.04.4, representing a critical weakness in the router's configuration management system. This issue stems from the implementation of weak encryption mechanisms within the ezconfig.asp web interface component, which is responsible for handling router configuration data. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and specifically targets the confidentiality of sensitive network configuration parameters stored within the router's memory.
The technical flaw manifests through the use of XOR encoding with a fixed byte mask for encrypting configuration information, a cryptographic approach that fundamentally lacks security properties required for protecting sensitive data. This weak encryption method essentially transforms the configuration data through a simple bitwise operation using a predetermined key, making the encryption trivially reversible without requiring advanced cryptanalytic techniques. The fixed nature of the encryption mask means that attackers who can intercept the encrypted configuration data can easily determine the encryption key through pattern analysis or by leveraging the known fixed mask. This weakness directly maps to CWE-327, which addresses the use of weak or broken cryptographic algorithms, and represents a clear violation of the principle of cryptographic strength as outlined in industry security standards.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it enables attackers to not only decrypt sensitive configuration parameters but also potentially modify the router's settings through the associated CVE-2005-2914 vulnerability. When combined with the configuration decryption capability, this creates a complete attack vector where adversaries can gain unauthorized access to network configurations, potentially including administrative credentials, network settings, and other sensitive parameters. The vulnerability affects routers in their default operational states, making it particularly dangerous as it does not require specific user actions or non-standard configurations to exploit. Attackers can leverage this weakness to compromise network security boundaries, potentially leading to full network infiltration and persistent access to the compromised network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both the immediate cryptographic weakness and the broader security implications of exposed router configurations. Organizations should implement immediate firmware updates to versions that employ strong encryption algorithms such as AES or RSA for configuration data protection, aligning with NIST SP 800-57 recommendations for cryptographic key management. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit direct access to router management interfaces, while regular security audits should verify that no legacy configurations remain vulnerable. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure configuration management practices as outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework's persistence tactics, where attackers can establish long-term access through compromised router configurations. Additionally, network administrators should consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect unusual patterns in router management traffic, providing early warning of potential exploitation attempts.