CVE-2010-2978 in Unified Wireless Network Solution Software
Summary
by MITRE
Cisco Unified Wireless Network (UWN) Solution 7.x before 7.0.98.0 does not use an adequate message-digest algorithm for a self-signed certificate, which allows remote attackers to bypass intended access restrictions via vectors involving collisions, aka Bug ID CSCtd67660.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/04/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-2978 affects Cisco Unified Wireless Network Solution version 7.x before 7.0.98.0, representing a critical security flaw in the cryptographic implementation of self-signed certificates used within the wireless network infrastructure. This weakness stems from the use of an inadequate message-digest algorithm that fails to provide sufficient collision resistance, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system's authentication mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically targets the certificate generation process where the system employs a weak hashing algorithm that can be manipulated through cryptographic collisions, undermining the integrity of the security model designed to protect wireless network access.
The technical flaw manifests in the certificate creation process where Cisco UWN Solution generates self-signed certificates using a message-digest algorithm that lacks proper collision resistance properties. This cryptographic weakness allows remote attackers to create forged certificates that can successfully bypass access controls, effectively enabling unauthorized network access. The vulnerability operates under the principle that if two different messages produce the same hash value, an attacker can exploit this collision to substitute a malicious certificate for a legitimate one. This particular implementation flaw represents a failure in cryptographic protocol enforcement and certificate management practices, directly violating security standards that require strong cryptographic primitives for authentication mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-2978 extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it fundamentally compromises the trust model of the wireless network infrastructure. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can bypass intended access restrictions, potentially gaining administrative privileges, accessing sensitive network data, or disrupting wireless services. The remote nature of the attack vector means that adversaries do not require physical access to the network equipment, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where wireless networks serve as primary access points for corporate resources. This weakness can enable persistent threats that may go undetected for extended periods, as the forged certificates can appear legitimate to the network authentication systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate implementation of Cisco's security patches and updates, specifically targeting the 7.0.98.0 release which addresses the cryptographic weakness in certificate generation. Organizations should also implement comprehensive certificate management policies that enforce the use of strong cryptographic algorithms, typically SHA-256 or stronger, for all certificate operations. The remediation process involves updating the wireless network solution to a patched version and regenerating all self-signed certificates using secure hashing algorithms. Additionally, network administrators should conduct thorough security assessments of their wireless infrastructure to identify any other potential cryptographic weaknesses and implement monitoring solutions to detect suspicious certificate-related activities. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-327, which addresses the use of weak cryptographic algorithms, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1552.001 for credentials from password storage, as it enables unauthorized access through compromised authentication mechanisms.