CVE-2007-0528 in PA168 chipset
Summary
by MITRE
The admin web console implemented by the Centrality Communications (aka Aredfox) PA168 chipset and firmware 1.54 and earlier, as provided by various IP phones, does not require passwords or authentication tokens when using HTTP, which allows remote attackers to connect to existing superuser sessions and obtain sensitive information (passwords and configuration data).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/19/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-0528 represents a critical authentication flaw in the Centrality Communications PA168 chipset firmware version 1.54 and earlier. This issue affects various IP phone implementations that utilize the chipset, creating a significant security risk for organizations relying on these devices for voice communications. The vulnerability stems from the absence of proper authentication mechanisms within the web-based administration console, which operates over the standard HTTP protocol without requiring any form of password verification or authentication tokens. This design flaw fundamentally undermines the security posture of the affected devices, as it provides unrestricted access to administrative functions that should be protected from unauthorized users.
The technical nature of this vulnerability can be categorized under CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues in software systems. The flaw specifically manifests in the web console implementation where the system fails to validate user credentials before granting access to administrative sessions. When an attacker connects to the device via HTTP, they can establish a superuser session without providing any authentication information, effectively bypassing the entire security framework. This condition creates a persistent access point that remains available throughout the device's operational lifecycle, as long as the HTTP service remains enabled. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows attackers to obtain sensitive information including passwords and configuration data, which can then be used to compromise the entire communication infrastructure.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-0528 extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with the ability to manipulate critical system configurations and extract sensitive data. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to gain full administrative control over the IP phone devices, potentially leading to man-in-the-middle attacks, eavesdropping on communications, or even using the devices as entry points for further attacks within the network. The remote nature of the vulnerability means that attackers do not need physical access to the devices or network proximity, making it particularly dangerous for enterprise environments. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers legitimate credentials and valid accounts, as the attacker can leverage the existing superuser sessions without needing to create new accounts or credentials. The exposure of passwords and configuration data can lead to cascading security issues, as these credentials may be reused across multiple systems or applications within the organization's infrastructure.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should implement immediate mitigations including disabling HTTP access to the web console and enabling HTTPS with strong authentication mechanisms. The firmware version 1.54 and earlier should be updated to the latest available versions from Centrality Communications, as these updates typically include proper authentication requirements and security enhancements. Network segmentation should be implemented to isolate IP phone systems from critical network segments, and access controls should be enforced to limit who can reach the administrative interfaces. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure configuration management practices, as the default settings of these devices often include insecure configurations that need to be addressed through proper security hardening procedures. Security monitoring should be implemented to detect unauthorized access attempts to the administrative interfaces, and regular vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues in other networked devices.