CVE-2014-2264 in DiskStation Manager
Summary
by MITRE
The OpenVPN module in Synology DiskStation Manager (DSM) 4.3-3810 update 1 has a hardcoded root password of synopass, which makes it easier for remote attackers to obtain access via a VPN session.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/23/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-2264 represents a critical security flaw within Synology DiskStation Manager's OpenVPN implementation, specifically affecting DSM version 4.3-3810 update 1. This issue stems from a hardcoded credential configuration that significantly weakens the authentication mechanism for VPN connections. The presence of a default password that remains unchanged throughout the system's lifecycle creates an exploitable condition that adversaries can readily leverage to gain unauthorized access to network resources. The vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and confidentiality of data stored on Synology devices, as it provides a direct pathway for remote attackers to establish privileged sessions without proper authentication.
The technical implementation of this flaw involves the OpenVPN module within DSM where a hardcoded root password of synopass is embedded within the software configuration. This represents a fundamental failure in secure credential management practices and violates established security principles for authentication systems. The hardcoded nature of the password means that it cannot be changed or updated by administrators, creating a persistent vulnerability that exists across all affected versions. From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-798, which specifically addresses the use of hard-coded credentials, and represents a classic example of insecure coding practices that leave systems exposed to unauthorized access. The flaw operates at the application layer, specifically within the network security module responsible for VPN authentication and session management.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with a potential foothold for further network exploitation. Remote attackers who discover the hardcoded password can establish VPN sessions that grant them root-level access to the Synology device, potentially enabling them to modify system configurations, access sensitive data, or use the compromised device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the network. This vulnerability particularly affects enterprise environments where Synology devices are commonly used for file storage and network services, as it creates an automated attack vector that requires no complex exploitation techniques. The ease of exploitation means that this vulnerability can be actively targeted by threat actors, including automated scanning tools that specifically look for known default credentials across networked devices.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action from system administrators to address the hardcoded credential issue. The most effective immediate solution involves updating to a patched version of Synology DSM that removes or properly randomizes the hardcoded password. Administrators should also implement additional network security controls such as restricting VPN access to specific IP addresses, implementing strong network segmentation, and monitoring VPN connection attempts for suspicious activity. From a compliance perspective, this vulnerability violates several security standards including those outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and ISO 27001, which emphasize the importance of proper credential management and access control. Organizations should also consider implementing multi-factor authentication mechanisms and regular security audits to identify and remediate similar hardcoded credential issues within their infrastructure. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure software development practices and the need for regular security assessments to identify configuration flaws that could compromise system integrity.