CVE-2013-3542 in GXV3501
Summary
by MITRE
Grandstream GXV3501, GXV3504, GXV3601, GXV3601HD/LL, GXV3611HD/LL, GXV3615W/P, GXV3651FHD, GXV3662HD, GXV3615WP_HD, GXV3500, and possibly other camera models with firmware 1.0.4.11, have a hardcoded account "!#/" with the same password, which makes it easier for remote attackers to obtain access via a TELNET session.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/10/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-3542 affects a range of Grandstream video surveillance camera models including GXV3501, GXV3504, GXV3601, GXV3601HD/LL, GXV3611HD/LL, GXV3615W/P, GXV3651FHD, GXV3662HD, GXV3615WP_HD, and GXV3500 devices. These cameras operate with firmware version 1.0.4.11 and contain a critical security flaw that stems from the inclusion of a hardcoded administrative account within the device software. This hardcoded account utilizes the username "!#/" and is paired with a static password that remains consistent across all affected devices, creating a significant security risk that directly impacts the operational integrity of these surveillance systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the persistence of hardcoded credentials within the device firmware itself, making it impossible for administrators to modify or remove these accounts through standard configuration procedures. This flaw represents a direct violation of secure configuration principles and falls under the category of hardcoded credentials as classified by CWE-798. The presence of such credentials allows remote attackers to establish TELNET sessions with administrative privileges without requiring any authentication information, effectively providing unauthorized access to the device's management interfaces. The TELNET protocol, while commonly used for remote device management, lacks encryption and is inherently insecure, making this vulnerability even more dangerous when combined with the hardcoded credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass complete compromise of the surveillance infrastructure. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain full administrative control over affected devices, potentially enabling them to modify camera settings, access stored video footage, alter system configurations, or even redirect the device to malicious servers. The implications are particularly severe for security applications where these cameras are deployed for monitoring critical infrastructure, as the vulnerability could allow attackers to disable surveillance capabilities or manipulate evidence. This vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1075 Remote Services and T1021.004 Remote Services TELNET, demonstrating how attackers can use hardcoded credentials to establish persistent access to networked devices.
The security implications of this vulnerability are compounded by the fact that it affects multiple camera models from the same vendor, suggesting a systemic issue within the firmware development and security review processes. The hardcoded nature of the credentials means that even if administrators attempt to change passwords or implement additional security measures, the default account remains accessible, creating a persistent backdoor that attackers can exploit. Organizations using these devices face significant risk of unauthorized surveillance access, potential data breaches, and complete compromise of their security infrastructure. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of proper credential management and the necessity of regular firmware updates to address such security flaws that can persist across multiple device generations and firmware versions.