CVE-2009-0616 in Application Networking Manager
Summary
by MITRE
Cisco Application Networking Manager (ANM) before 2.0 uses default usernames and passwords, which makes it easier for remote attackers to access the application, or cause a denial of service via configuration changes, related to "default user credentials during installation."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/28/2019
Cisco Application Networking Manager version 2.0 and earlier contains a critical security flaw that stems from the improper handling of authentication credentials during the initial installation process. This vulnerability manifests as the use of hardcoded default usernames and passwords that remain unchanged unless explicitly modified by administrators. The flaw falls under the CWE-798 category, which specifically addresses the use of hard-coded credentials in software applications. The vulnerability exists because the installation process does not enforce credential changes, leaving systems accessible with well-known default authentication parameters that attackers can readily exploit.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to the ANM application through a straightforward authentication bypass mechanism. Attackers can leverage these default credentials to establish sessions with the application, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The impact extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as authenticated attackers can manipulate the application configuration through the web interface, potentially causing denial of service conditions or altering critical network settings. This vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through network-based attacks without requiring physical access to the system.
The operational consequences of this vulnerability are severe for organizations deploying Cisco ANM software, as it creates an immediate and persistent security risk that can be exploited by anyone with basic network knowledge. The default credentials remain active throughout the system lifecycle, meaning that even if administrators later change passwords, the initial default values provide a backdoor that attackers can exploit. This vulnerability enables several attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically covering credential access and privilege escalation techniques. The flaw particularly affects the application's integrity and availability, as unauthorized users can modify configuration parameters that control network application delivery.
Organizations should implement immediate remediation measures to address this vulnerability by updating to Cisco ANM version 2.0 or later, which resolves the default credential issue through mandatory credential changes during installation. System administrators must also conduct comprehensive audits of all deployed ANM instances to identify systems still running vulnerable versions. The recommended mitigation strategy includes enforcing mandatory credential changes during the initial setup process, implementing network segmentation to limit access to the ANM application, and establishing monitoring procedures to detect unauthorized access attempts. Additionally, organizations should review their vulnerability management processes to ensure that default credentials are properly addressed during software deployment and that security configurations are validated through automated scanning tools that can identify hardcoded authentication parameters.