CVE-2014-1408 in C54APM
Summary
by MITRE
The Conceptronic C54APM access point with runtime code 1.26 has a default password of admin for the admin account, which makes it easier for remote attackers to obtain access via an HTTP request, as demonstrated by stored XSS attacks.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/04/2019
The Conceptronic C54APM access point represents a critical security vulnerability through its use of a hardcoded default administrative password, specifically the value "admin" which remains unchanged across all devices. This weakness stems from poor security practices in embedded device design where manufacturers fail to implement proper authentication mechanisms or enforce password complexity requirements. The vulnerability exists within the device's runtime code version 1.26 and demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the principle of least privilege, as it provides unauthorized remote access to administrative functions without proper authentication. This default credential issue directly enables attackers to gain full control over the device's configuration and operational parameters.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows remote attackers to exploit the device through standard HTTP requests, which creates a significant attack surface for malicious actors. The device's web interface remains accessible without proper authentication mechanisms, enabling attackers to establish sessions with administrative privileges simply by submitting the default password. This weakness becomes particularly dangerous when combined with other vulnerabilities, as demonstrated by the stored cross-site scripting attacks that can be leveraged through this initial compromise. The HTTP-based access point means that attackers can utilize standard network protocols to connect to the device, making the exploitation process straightforward and accessible to attackers with minimal technical expertise. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-79 which describes cross-site scripting flaws, and CWE-259 which addresses weak password management.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to include complete network compromise and potential data exfiltration. Once an attacker gains administrative access through the default password, they can modify network configurations, redirect traffic, install malicious firmware, or use the device as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. The stored XSS attacks mentioned in the vulnerability description indicate that attackers can inject malicious scripts that persist on the device, potentially affecting all users who interact with the web interface. This creates a persistent threat that can remain undetected for extended periods, allowing attackers to maintain access while conducting reconnaissance or launching additional attacks. The device's role as a network access point makes it a particularly attractive target for attackers seeking to establish footholds within corporate or residential networks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must include immediate password changes for all affected devices, implementing strong authentication mechanisms, and ensuring that default credentials are disabled or changed upon initial device setup. Network administrators should conduct comprehensive inventory audits to identify all affected devices and apply security patches or firmware updates where available. The implementation of network segmentation and firewall rules can help limit the attack surface by restricting access to administrative interfaces from unauthorized networks. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious HTTP traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with T1110 which covers credential access techniques, and T1071 which addresses application layer protocols. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to identify similar issues in other network infrastructure devices. Device manufacturers should be encouraged to implement mandatory password change policies during initial setup and to provide clear security guidelines to end users about the dangers of default credentials.