CVE-2013-2572 in TL-SC 3130G
Summary
by MITRE
A Security Bypass vulnerability exists in TP-LINK IP Cameras TL-SC 3130, TL-SC 3130G, 3171G, 4171G, and 3130 1.6.18P12 due to default hard-coded credentials for the administrative Web interface, which could let a malicious user obtain unauthorized access to CGI files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-2572 represents a critical security bypass flaw affecting several TP-LINK IP camera models including the TL-SC 3130, TL-SC 3130G, 3171G, 4171G, and 3130 version 1.6.18P12. This issue stems from the implementation of default hard-coded administrative credentials within the device firmware, creating an inherent weakness that undermines the security posture of these network surveillance devices. The flaw specifically impacts the administrative web interface of these cameras, which are commonly deployed in both residential and commercial environments for video surveillance purposes.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the inclusion of fixed username and password combinations within the camera firmware that remain unchanged regardless of deployment environment or security requirements. These hard-coded credentials provide direct access to the camera's administrative web interface, bypassing normal authentication mechanisms. When an attacker discovers or can guess these default credentials, they gain unauthorized access to the camera's Common Gateway Interface (CGI) files, which contain critical system functions and configuration parameters. This access level allows for complete control over the device, including the ability to modify settings, access video feeds, and potentially use the camera as a pivot point for further network attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it creates a persistent security risk for organizations deploying these cameras in sensitive environments. Network administrators who fail to change default credentials face the risk of complete device compromise, which could lead to unauthorized surveillance, data exfiltration, or use of the compromised cameras as entry points for broader network infiltration. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects multiple models within the TP-LINK product line, suggesting a systemic design flaw rather than an isolated incident. This widespread exposure increases the potential attack surface and makes the vulnerability more attractive to automated scanning tools that can identify and exploit these devices at scale.
The security implications of this vulnerability align with CWE-798, which addresses the use of hard-coded credentials in software applications, and reflects patterns commonly seen in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the initial access and privilege escalation phases. The flaw enables attackers to achieve persistent access to network devices without requiring specialized knowledge of the specific camera models or complex exploitation techniques. Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including changing default credentials, implementing network segmentation, and deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for unauthorized access attempts. Regular firmware updates and security audits of networked devices remain essential practices for preventing exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future, as this issue demonstrates the critical importance of proper credential management in network security infrastructure.
The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the fundamental security principle that default credentials should never be left unchanged in production environments, particularly in devices with network connectivity and surveillance capabilities. The persistence of such flaws in commercial network security products highlights the need for comprehensive security testing and proper configuration management practices in all networked devices.