CVE-2009-0620 in Application Control Engine Module
Summary
by MITRE
Cisco ACE Application Control Engine Module for Catalyst 6500 Switches and 7600 Routers before A2(1.1) uses default (1) usernames and (2) passwords for (a) the administrator and (b) web management, which makes it easier for remote attackers to perform configuration changes or obtain operating-system access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/28/2019
The Cisco ACE Application Control Engine Module represents a critical security vulnerability identified as CVE-2009-0620, affecting Catalyst 6500 Switches and 7600 Routers running software versions prior to A2(1.1). This vulnerability stems from the implementation of default authentication credentials that persist across device deployments, creating a significant attack surface for malicious actors seeking unauthorized system access. The flaw specifically impacts both administrative and web management interfaces, establishing a persistent security weakness that undermines the integrity of network infrastructure components.
The technical nature of this vulnerability resides in the hardcoded default credentials that administrators fail to change during initial deployment or subsequent maintenance cycles. When devices are shipped with pre-configured usernames and passwords, particularly those following predictable patterns such as admin/admin or root/root combinations, attackers can readily exploit this weakness to gain elevated privileges. This issue directly maps to CWE-798, which classifies the use of hard-coded credentials as a severe security flaw. The default credentials provide attackers with direct access to administrative functions, enabling them to modify critical network configurations, install malicious software, or establish persistent backdoors within the network infrastructure.
The operational impact of CVE-2009-0620 extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it enables attackers to perform configuration changes that can compromise entire network segments. Once authenticated, malicious actors can manipulate load balancing configurations, modify access control lists, or disable security features that protect against other network threats. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where these modules serve as critical components of application delivery and network traffic management. The ability to obtain operating system access through default credentials means that attackers can potentially escalate privileges, access sensitive network data, or use the compromised module as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004, which covers legitimate credentials obtained through default credentials, providing attackers with stealthy access methods that are difficult to detect through standard network monitoring.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of credential management practices and network security hardening procedures. Organizations must ensure that all default usernames and passwords are changed upon initial deployment and that strong, unique credentials are established for administrative access. Network administrators should implement regular security audits to identify and remediate any remaining default credentials across their infrastructure. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of applying security patches promptly, as Cisco released updates to address this specific weakness in version A2(1.1) and later releases. Additional protective measures include implementing network segmentation, restricting remote access to management interfaces, and establishing robust monitoring protocols to detect unauthorized access attempts. The remediation process should also include comprehensive staff training on security best practices, emphasizing the critical importance of credential management and the potential consequences of leaving default authentication settings unchanged.