CVE-2011-3289 in IOS
Summary
by MITRE
Cisco IOS 12.4 and 15.0 through 15.2 allows physically proximate attackers to bypass the No Service Password-Recovery feature and read the start-up configuration via unspecified vectors, aka Bug ID CSCtr97640.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/09/2025
Cisco IOS versions 12.4 and 15.0 through 15.2 contain a critical vulnerability that undermines the security posture of network devices by allowing physically proximate attackers to bypass the No Service Password-Recovery feature and access sensitive startup configuration data. This vulnerability represents a significant weakness in the device's security architecture and demonstrates a failure in proper access control implementation. The flaw specifically affects the password recovery mechanism that is designed to prevent unauthorized access to device configurations, creating a direct pathway for attackers who can physically approach the device to extract critical system information.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from unspecified vectors that enable attackers to circumvent the intended security controls. According to the Cisco Bug ID CSCtr97640, the issue occurs during the password recovery process where the system fails to properly validate physical access controls or authentication mechanisms. This allows an attacker with physical proximity to the device to read the startup configuration file, which typically contains sensitive information including administrative passwords, network settings, and other critical system parameters. The vulnerability operates at a low level within the IOS operating system, exploiting weaknesses in the configuration access controls rather than higher-level network protocols.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted. An attacker with physical access to a vulnerable Cisco IOS device can extract the complete startup configuration, potentially gaining access to administrative credentials and system settings that could be used for further exploitation or lateral movement within the network. This creates a significant risk for organizations that rely on physical security controls for network device protection, as it demonstrates that physical proximity alone can compromise system security. The vulnerability essentially nullifies the intended security benefits of the No Service Password-Recovery feature, which is specifically designed to prevent unauthorized access to device configurations.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-284 Access Control Issues, specifically addressing improper access control mechanisms within network device operating systems. The flaw also relates to ATT&CK technique T1003 Credential Dumping, as it enables extraction of stored credentials from device memory. Organizations may find this vulnerability particularly concerning given that it operates at the device level and can be exploited without requiring network connectivity or advanced technical skills beyond physical access. The attack surface is limited to physical proximity but represents a critical weakness in security-by-physical-access models. Mitigation strategies should focus on implementing stronger physical security controls, including restricted access to network equipment, proper device placement, and regular security updates to address known vulnerabilities in IOS versions. Network administrators should also consider implementing additional monitoring and detection capabilities to identify potential unauthorized physical access attempts.
The vulnerability underscores the importance of comprehensive security testing and validation of security features in network operating systems. It demonstrates that even seemingly simple security mechanisms like password recovery can contain critical flaws that undermine overall system security. Organizations should conduct regular security assessments of their network infrastructure, paying particular attention to device-level security controls and ensuring that all systems are running patched versions that address known vulnerabilities. The incident highlights the need for continuous security monitoring and the importance of maintaining current security practices to protect against both network-based and physical security threats.