CVE-2010-0599 in Mediator Framework
Summary
by MITRE
Cisco Mediator Framework 1.5.1 before 1.5.1.build.14-eng, 2.2 before 2.2.1.dev.1, and 3.0 before 3.0.9.release.1 on the Cisco Network Building Mediator NBM-2400 and NBM-4800 and the Richards-Zeta Mediator 2500 does not encrypt XML RPC sessions from operator workstations, which allows remote attackers to discover Administrator credentials by sniffing the network, aka Bug ID CSCtb83505.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/29/2024
The vulnerability described in CVE-2010-0599 represents a critical security flaw in Cisco's Mediator Framework implementations across multiple versions of their Network Building Mediator and Richards-Zeta Mediator products. This issue affects specific device models including the NBM-2400, NBM-4800, and Richards-Zeta Mediator 2500, where the framework fails to properly encrypt XML RPC sessions between operator workstations and the mediator devices. The flaw exists in versions prior to 1.5.1.build.14-eng, 2.2.1.dev.1, and 3.0.9.release.1 respectively, creating a significant attack surface for remote adversaries who can exploit this weakness through network sniffing operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the lack of encryption for XML RPC communications, which falls under CWE-310 - Cryptographic Issues, specifically addressing the absence of proper encryption mechanisms for sensitive data transmission. When operators interact with these mediator devices through XML RPC sessions, their credentials and administrative commands are transmitted in plaintext over the network, making them vulnerable to interception by malicious actors positioned within the network infrastructure. This weakness directly violates fundamental security principles outlined in NIST SP 800-57 and other cryptographic standards that mandate the protection of sensitive information during transmission.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with direct access to administrator credentials that could enable full control over the affected mediator devices. The attack vector requires only the ability to perform network sniffing operations, which can be accomplished through relatively simple tools and techniques available to most network attackers. Once credentials are obtained, attackers can leverage them to perform administrative functions, modify configurations, access sensitive data, and potentially establish persistent access points within the network infrastructure. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 - Valid Accounts, where adversaries use legitimate credentials to gain access to systems, and T1046 - Network Service Scanning, as the attack requires network reconnaissance to identify vulnerable systems.
The implications extend beyond immediate credential theft, as these mediator devices typically serve as critical network infrastructure components that may control access to network building systems and facilitate communication between various network segments. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited by attackers with minimal technical expertise, potentially leading to widespread network compromise. Organizations using these affected devices face significant risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential network disruption. The issue demonstrates poor security implementation practices in network device management protocols, highlighting the importance of implementing proper encryption standards for all administrative communications.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate remediation through firmware updates to the patched versions mentioned in the CVE description, as well as implementing network segmentation to limit the exposure of these devices to untrusted network segments. Network administrators should also consider deploying additional monitoring solutions to detect unusual network traffic patterns that might indicate credential interception attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of implementing end-to-end encryption for all administrative communications, particularly in network infrastructure devices where unauthorized access can have cascading effects throughout the entire network infrastructure. Organizations should also review their network access controls and implement principle of least privilege for operator access to prevent lateral movement if credentials are compromised.