CVE-2009-1472 in KN9116 IP KVM switch
Summary
by MITRE
The Java client program for the ATEN KH1516i IP KVM switch with firmware 1.0.063 and the KN9116 IP KVM switch with firmware 1.1.104 has a hardcoded AES encryption key, which makes it easier for man-in-the-middle attackers to (1) execute arbitrary Java code, or (2) gain access to machines connected to the switch, by hijacking a session.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/07/2017
The vulnerability described in CVE-2009-1472 represents a critical security flaw in the Java client software component of certain ATEN IP KVM switches. This issue affects the KH1516i model with firmware version 1.0.063 and the KN9116 model with firmware version 1.1.104, exposing these devices to significant exploitation risks. The core problem lies in the implementation of cryptographic security measures within the client-side Java application, where a hardcoded AES encryption key has been embedded into the software. This design flaw fundamentally undermines the security architecture of the remote management system, creating a pathway for malicious actors to compromise the connected infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the use of a hardcoded cryptographic key within the Java client application, which violates fundamental security principles outlined in CWE-310. This hardcoded key allows attackers to reverse engineer the encryption mechanism and subsequently decrypt communications between the client and the KVM switch. The vulnerability enables two primary attack vectors: arbitrary code execution and unauthorized access to connected machines. Attackers can leverage this weakness to hijack active sessions, effectively bypassing the intended authentication and authorization mechanisms that should protect the KVM switch's management interface and connected systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it allows attackers to gain unauthorized control over systems connected to the KVM switch. According to ATT&CK framework concepts, this represents a privilege escalation and lateral movement opportunity where adversaries can establish persistent access to target networks. The vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where IP KVM switches are deployed for remote system administration, as it enables attackers to execute malicious code directly on managed systems and potentially escalate privileges. The man-in-the-middle attack capability means that even if network traffic is encrypted, the hardcoded key renders the encryption ineffective, allowing attackers to intercept and manipulate communications without detection.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability require immediate remediation efforts including firmware updates from ATEN to address the hardcoded key implementation, network segmentation to isolate KVM switch communications, and implementation of additional authentication layers such as two-factor authentication for switch management interfaces. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive network monitoring to detect unauthorized access attempts and establish network access controls to limit communication to trusted management stations only. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper cryptographic key management practices and highlights the dangers of embedding cryptographic secrets within client-side applications. This issue underscores the necessity of following security best practices such as those outlined in NIST SP 800-57 for key management and the importance of avoiding hardcoded credentials or cryptographic keys in software implementations.