CVE-2007-4926 in 207W camera
Summary
by MITRE
The AXIS 207W camera uses a base64-encoded cleartext username and password for authentication, which allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information by sniffing the wireless network or by leveraging unspecified other vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/29/2017
The AXIS 207W network camera represents a significant security vulnerability through its implementation of weak authentication mechanisms that expose critical credentials during network communication. This device employs base64 encoding as a means of obfuscating cleartext authentication credentials rather than implementing proper encryption or secure authentication protocols. The fundamental flaw lies in the device's failure to utilize industry-standard security measures such as TLS/SSL encryption for credential transmission, instead relying on a simple base64 encoding scheme that provides no real security protection. This vulnerability directly aligns with CWE-312, which addresses the exposure of sensitive information through improper encoding, and represents a classic example of inadequate cryptographic implementation in networked security devices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential exposure, as it creates multiple attack vectors for malicious actors seeking unauthorized access to the camera system. Remote attackers can intercept network traffic through wireless network sniffing techniques, particularly in unsecured or poorly secured wireless environments where base64 encoded credentials can be easily decoded and exploited. The unspecified other vectors mentioned in the vulnerability description suggest potential additional attack surfaces such as man-in-the-middle attacks, packet capture scenarios, or exploitation through compromised network infrastructure. This weakness enables attackers to gain unauthorized access to the camera's administrative functions, potentially allowing for complete system compromise, video feed interception, and unauthorized surveillance activities.
The security implications of this vulnerability are particularly severe given the nature of network cameras as surveillance devices that often contain sensitive visual information and are deployed in environments requiring robust security controls. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can not only access live video feeds but also modify camera settings, change authentication credentials, and potentially use the compromised device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the network. This scenario aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which covers application layer protocol usage for command and control communications, as the compromised camera could be used to establish persistent access or relay commands. The vulnerability demonstrates a critical failure in secure development practices, as proper authentication mechanisms should never rely on simple encoding schemes for protecting sensitive information.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of network-level security measures including mandatory TLS/SSL encryption for all communications, proper network segmentation to isolate security devices, and regular security audits of network infrastructure. Organizations should implement wireless network security protocols such as WPA2-Enterprise with strong authentication mechanisms rather than relying on simple WEP or WPA protection. Network administrators must also consider deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious traffic patterns and implement proper network access controls to limit exposure. The device should be updated to firmware versions that implement proper encryption protocols, and if possible, replaced with newer models that support industry-standard security features such as certificate-based authentication, encrypted communication channels, and secure credential storage mechanisms. Additionally, organizations should establish comprehensive security policies that mandate the use of encrypted protocols for all network communications involving sensitive devices and implement regular security training for personnel responsible for maintaining networked security infrastructure.