CVE-2013-4613 in MX340
Summary
by MITRE
The default configuration of the administrative interface on the Canon MG3100, MG5300, MG6100, MP495, MX340, MX870, MX890, MX920, and MX922 printers does not require authentication, which allows remote attackers to modify the configuration by visiting the Advanced page. NOTE: the vendor has apparently responded by stating "for user convenience, the default setting does not require a password. However, if a user has a particular concern about third parties accessing the user s home printer, the default setting can be changed to add a password."
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/20/2024
The CVE-2013-4613 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in several Canon printer models including MG3100, MG5300, MG6100, MP495, MX340, MX870, MX890, MX920, and MX922 series devices. This vulnerability stems from the default configuration of the administrative web interface that fails to enforce authentication mechanisms, creating an inherent security weakness that exposes these devices to unauthorized remote access. The flaw specifically affects the Advanced page of the printer's web interface, where attackers can modify critical configuration parameters without any form of authentication. This issue directly violates fundamental security principles and represents a classic example of insecure default configurations that have been widely documented in security frameworks such as CWE-798, which addresses the use of hard-coded credentials or insecure default settings.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows remote attackers to exploit the lack of authentication by simply navigating to the Advanced configuration page of the printer's web interface. Once accessed, attackers can modify various printer settings including network configurations, print job parameters, and potentially access sensitive information stored within the device. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects multiple printer models across different product lines, indicating a systemic design flaw rather than an isolated incident. This weakness enables attackers to perform unauthorized modifications that could disrupt printing operations, potentially redirect print jobs to malicious destinations, or even use the printers as entry points for further network infiltration. The attack vector is particularly dangerous as it requires no specialized tools or deep technical knowledge beyond basic web browsing capabilities.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risks for both home and enterprise users who may not be aware of the security implications. The default configuration setting essentially provides a backdoor that allows any remote user to gain administrative control over the printer without requiring any credentials, which violates the principle of least privilege and creates an attack surface that could be leveraged for broader network compromise. In enterprise environments, these printers could serve as low-hanging fruit for attackers seeking to establish persistent access points or to perform reconnaissance activities. The vulnerability also impacts the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the printer services, potentially allowing attackers to intercept print jobs, modify print settings to redirect output, or even use the printer as a pivot point for attacking other networked devices. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage and T1046 for network service discovery.
The vendor response to this vulnerability demonstrates a common security challenge where user convenience is prioritized over security considerations in default configurations. While the manufacturer's explanation acknowledges the security concern and provides a mechanism for users to implement password protection, this reactive approach fails to address the fundamental issue of insecure defaults that leave users vulnerable until they actively configure additional security measures. The recommended mitigation strategy involves enabling password protection for the administrative interface, which aligns with security best practices outlined in various compliance frameworks including NIST SP 800-44 and ISO/IEC 27001. Organizations should implement regular security assessments to identify and remediate such insecure default configurations, particularly in environments where networked devices are accessible from untrusted networks. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of network segmentation and the need for organizations to regularly review and update device configurations to ensure that security controls are properly implemented and maintained.