CVE-2010-2082 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 has a default administrative password (aka SAPassword) of W2402, which makes it easier for remote attackers to obtain privileged access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/01/2018
The Cisco Scientific Atlanta WebSTAR DPC2100R2 cable modem represents a critical network infrastructure device that serves as a gateway between residential networks and internet service providers. This particular model operates with firmware version 2.0.2r1256-060303 and contains a fundamental security flaw that undermines its operational integrity. The vulnerability stems from the device's default administrative credentials configuration, specifically the hardcoded password SAPassword set to W2402. This default credential configuration creates an easily exploitable entry point for malicious actors seeking unauthorized access to the device's web interface.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the device's web-based management interface failing to enforce proper authentication mechanisms or requiring administrators to change default passwords during initial setup. This flaw aligns with CWE-798, which addresses the use of hard-coded credentials in software systems, and represents a classic example of poor security configuration management. The default password W2402 is not only easily discoverable through public documentation but also follows predictable naming conventions that security researchers and attackers commonly reference in their reconnaissance activities. The web interface configuration allows remote access without requiring additional authentication steps, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous as it does not require physical access to the device or sophisticated attack techniques to exploit.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with complete administrative control over the modem's configuration settings. This level of access enables malicious actors to modify network parameters, redirect traffic, implement man-in-the-middle attacks, or establish persistent backdoors within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited by anyone with network access to the device, potentially allowing attackers to compromise not just the individual modem but also the entire residential network it serves. The remote nature of the attack means that threat actors can exploit this vulnerability from anywhere in the world without requiring physical presence or specialized equipment.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must include immediate password changes to ensure that the default SAPassword of W2402 is replaced with a strong, unique administrative password. Network administrators should implement comprehensive credential management policies that require all default passwords to be changed upon device deployment. The device should be configured to disable unnecessary web interface access when not required for management purposes, and network segmentation should be implemented to limit access to the device. Additionally, regular firmware updates should be applied to address known vulnerabilities, and network monitoring should be implemented to detect unauthorized access attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper security configuration management and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which addresses valid accounts and privilege escalation through default credentials. Organizations should also consider implementing network access control measures and regular security assessments to identify similar configuration flaws across their infrastructure assets.