CVE-2008-1264 in WRT54G
Summary
by MITRE
The Linksys WRT54G router has "admin" as its default FTP password, which allows remote attackers to access sensitive files including nvram.cfg, a file that lists all HTML documents, and an ELF executable file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/09/2017
The CVE-2008-1264 vulnerability affects the Linksys WRT54G wireless router model, representing a critical security flaw in default configuration settings that exposes sensitive system information to remote attackers. This vulnerability stems from the router's hardcoded administrative credentials, specifically the default FTP password set to "admin," which creates an easily exploitable entry point for unauthorized access to the device's file system. The flaw demonstrates a fundamental failure in secure-by-design principles where manufacturers assume users will change default passwords, leaving millions of devices vulnerable to exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows remote attackers to establish FTP connections to the router using the default administrative credentials, providing access to critical system files stored in the router's non-volatile memory. The nvram.cfg file contains configuration data including HTML documents and system parameters that reveal the router's internal structure, while the ELF executable file represents potentially executable code that could be leveraged for further exploitation. This access pattern aligns with CWE-798, which addresses the use of hardcoded credentials in software, and represents a classic example of poor authentication implementation that violates fundamental security practices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it enables attackers to potentially modify router configurations, intercept network traffic, or establish persistent backdoors within the network infrastructure. Network administrators who fail to change default passwords face significant risks including man-in-the-middle attacks, data exfiltration, and complete network compromise. The vulnerability affects a widely deployed device model, making it particularly dangerous as it represents a common attack vector that can be exploited at scale. This scenario exemplifies ATT&CK technique T1078.004, which covers legitimate credentials and default passwords as methods for maintaining access to compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2008-1264 require immediate implementation of password changes for all administrative interfaces, including FTP, web interfaces, and SSH if enabled. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to router management interfaces to trusted networks only. Regular firmware updates and security audits should be conducted to identify and remediate similar configuration flaws. Organizations should also implement network monitoring to detect unauthorized access attempts and establish automated systems to enforce secure configuration standards across all network devices. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of default credential management and demonstrates how seemingly minor configuration oversights can result in significant security breaches that compromise entire network infrastructures.