CVE-2010-2026 in Scientific Atlanta WebSTAR DPC2100R2
Summary
by MITRE
The web interface on the Cisco Scientific Atlanta WebSTAR DPC2100R2 cable modem with firmware 2.0.2r1256-060303 allows remote attackers to bypass authentication, and reset the modem or replace the firmware, via a direct request to an unspecified page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/31/2017
The Cisco Scientific Atlanta WebSTAR DPC2100R2 cable modem represents a critical network infrastructure device that serves as a gateway between residential users and internet service providers. This particular model operates with firmware version 2.0.2r1256-060303, which contains a significant authentication bypass vulnerability that exposes the device to remote exploitation. The vulnerability exists within the web interface component of the modem's firmware, creating an entry point for malicious actors to gain unauthorized access to the device's administrative functions. This authentication flaw fundamentally undermines the security posture of the device, as it allows attackers to circumvent the normal access controls that should protect sensitive administrative operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper access control mechanisms within the web interface of the DPC2100R2 modem. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting direct HTTP requests to unspecified administrative endpoints without proper authentication credentials. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-285 category of Improper Authorization, specifically manifesting as an authentication bypass that allows unauthorized access to administrative functions. The flaw enables remote attackers to perform privileged operations including modem reset and firmware replacement, which represents a complete compromise of the device's operational integrity. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access to the device or network proximity to execute the attack, significantly expanding the threat surface.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with complete control over the modem's functionality and configuration. Once exploited, attackers can reset the device to factory defaults, potentially disrupting internet connectivity for end users and forcing them to reconfigure their network settings. More critically, the ability to replace firmware allows attackers to install malicious code or backdoors, effectively converting the modem into a persistent threat vector within the network. This vulnerability creates a significant risk for both individual users and network service providers, as compromised modems can serve as entry points for broader network attacks or as tools for conducting man-in-the-middle operations. The implications align with ATT&CK technique T1072 for Application Deployment, where attackers establish persistence through firmware manipulation, and T1082 for System Information Discovery, as the compromised device can be used to gather network intelligence.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate firmware updates from Cisco to address the authentication bypass issue. Network administrators should implement network segmentation to isolate critical infrastructure devices and limit the potential impact of successful exploitation. Regular security assessments of network devices should include verification of authentication mechanisms and access controls to prevent similar vulnerabilities from persisting. Additionally, implementing network monitoring solutions that detect anomalous administrative requests or firmware modification attempts can provide early warning of exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure device management practices and proper authentication implementation in network infrastructure devices, emphasizing the need for robust security controls throughout the device lifecycle. Organizations should also consider implementing device authentication mechanisms and access control lists to further protect against unauthorized administrative access to critical network equipment.