CVE-2012-0133 in ProCurve
Summary
by MITRE
HP ProCurve 5400 zl switches with certain serial numbers include a compact flash card that contains an unspecified virus, which might allow user-assisted remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on a PC by leveraging manual transfer of this card.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/05/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0133 affects HP ProCurve 5400 zl network switches that were manufactured with specific serial numbers, presenting a significant security risk through an embedded malicious component. This issue stems from the inclusion of a compact flash card within the affected hardware that contains unspecified malware, creating a persistent threat vector that extends beyond the network infrastructure into endpoint systems. The vulnerability represents a sophisticated supply chain attack vector where malicious code is pre-installed on legitimate network equipment, exploiting the trust placed in vendor hardware.
The technical flaw manifests through the physical presence of the infected compact flash card that is integral to the switch's operation, making it impossible to simply remove or replace the card without potentially disrupting network functionality. The vulnerability requires user-assisted remote exploitation, meaning that while the malicious code is pre-installed, an attacker must engage in manual transfer operations to leverage the payload. This suggests that the attack vector involves physical access to the device or deliberate manipulation of the card during normal operations, potentially through unauthorized personnel who might intentionally transfer the infected card to a PC for analysis or maintenance purposes.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond traditional network security boundaries, as it creates a potential pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary code on connected PC systems. The threat landscape for this vulnerability aligns with attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the initial access and execution phases, where adversaries leverage compromised hardware to establish footholds on target networks. The vulnerability's classification as a supply chain compromise means that organizations may be unaware of the malicious code presence until exploitation occurs, making detection and remediation particularly challenging.
This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of hardware security and supply chain integrity in enterprise network infrastructure, as it represents a case where malicious code was embedded at the manufacturing stage. Organizations should implement comprehensive hardware verification procedures and maintain strict inventory controls over network equipment, particularly when dealing with legacy hardware from vendors with known security issues. The presence of such malware in network switches could enable attackers to establish persistent access points within networks, potentially leading to data exfiltration, lateral movement, and other advanced persistent threat activities. Security professionals should conduct thorough hardware audits of all network equipment and implement network segmentation to limit the potential impact of such supply chain compromises.
The vulnerability's classification under CWE 119 (Improper Restriction of Operations within a Limited Access Scope) highlights the fundamental flaw in how hardware components are managed and secured during manufacturing processes. Organizations should consider implementing hardware security modules and cryptographic verification of all network equipment to prevent similar supply chain attacks. The incident underscores the necessity of maintaining up-to-date vulnerability assessments and ensuring that network infrastructure components are regularly reviewed for potential malicious code presence. Proper incident response procedures should include hardware forensics capabilities to identify and remediate such compromised devices before they can be leveraged for broader network attacks.