CVE-2012-0697 in StorageWorks P2000 G3 MSA
Summary
by MITRE
HP StorageWorks P2000 G3 MSA array systems have a default account, which makes it easier for remote attackers to perform administrative tasks via unspecified vectors, a different vulnerability than CVE-2011-4788.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/28/2021
The HP StorageWorks P2000 G3 MSA array systems present a critical security weakness through the inclusion of a default administrative account that remains enabled and accessible without proper authentication. This vulnerability specifically affects storage array systems manufactured by Hewlett Packard and represents a significant risk to enterprise environments where these devices are deployed. The default account configuration creates an inherent backdoor that malicious actors can exploit to gain unauthorized administrative access, potentially compromising entire storage infrastructures. Unlike CVE-2011-4788 which addressed different attack vectors, this vulnerability focuses specifically on the persistent presence of default credentials that persist across system installations and updates.
The technical flaw manifests in the system's default configuration where administrative accounts are provisioned with predetermined usernames and passwords that are widely known within the security community. These default credentials are typically hardcoded into the system firmware and remain active unless explicitly disabled by administrators during initial setup or configuration processes. The unspecified attack vectors suggest that multiple pathways exist for exploitation including network-based attacks, physical access scenarios, or even social engineering approaches that leverage the predictable nature of default account credentials. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-798, which addresses the use of hard-coded credentials, and represents a classic example of insecure default configuration that violates fundamental security principles.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized access, as it enables attackers to perform administrative tasks with full system privileges. Once compromised, attackers can modify storage configurations, access sensitive data stored on the array, manipulate backup operations, and potentially escalate their privileges to other connected systems within the network infrastructure. The remote attack capability means that threat actors can exploit this vulnerability from anywhere on the network without requiring physical access to the storage array, making it particularly dangerous for organizations with exposed storage systems. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation through legitimate credentials.
Organizations using HP StorageWorks P2000 G3 MSA array systems should immediately implement comprehensive remediation measures to address this vulnerability. The primary mitigation strategy involves disabling or renaming default administrative accounts and implementing strong, unique passwords for all administrative access points. Network segmentation should be implemented to restrict access to storage arrays to authorized personnel only, and regular security audits should be conducted to verify that default accounts have been properly secured. Additionally, organizations should establish robust configuration management processes that ensure all systems are properly configured according to security best practices, including the elimination of default accounts and the implementation of multi-factor authentication for administrative access. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of regular security assessments and the need for organizations to maintain current knowledge of known vulnerabilities affecting their infrastructure components, particularly those with persistent default configurations that can be exploited by attackers with minimal technical expertise.