CVE-2014-3419 in NetMRI
Summary
by MITRE
Infoblox NetMRI before 6.8.5 has a default password of admin for the "root" MySQL database account, which makes it easier for local users to obtain access via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/30/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-3419 affects Infoblox NetMRI versions prior to 6.8.5 and represents a critical security flaw involving default credentials for database access. This weakness stems from the improper configuration of the MySQL database account with the username "root" and password "admin" which remains unchanged from the default installation settings. The vulnerability creates a significant attack surface that allows local users to gain unauthorized access to the system through unspecified vectors, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
From a technical perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-798, which specifically addresses the use of hard-coded credentials in software systems. The flaw exists at the configuration management level where default administrative accounts are not properly secured or disabled during the initial deployment process. The MySQL root account with the default password creates an inherent privilege escalation vector that bypasses normal authentication mechanisms. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to gain administrative control over the database and potentially the entire NetMRI appliance.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with elevated privileges that could enable data exfiltration, system modification, or complete system takeover. Local users who can exploit this weakness can manipulate network data, access sensitive configuration information, and potentially use the compromised system as a foothold for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The unspecified vectors mentioned in the description suggest that multiple attack paths may exist, including physical access, network-based exploitation, or privilege escalation from other compromised components.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly under the techniques related to credential access and privilege escalation. The presence of default credentials represents a fundamental failure in the principle of least privilege and demonstrates poor security hygiene in the product's default configuration. Organizations should implement immediate remediation measures including updating to Infoblox NetMRI version 6.8.5 or later, which properly addresses this credential issue, and conducting comprehensive audits of all systems to identify similar default credential vulnerabilities. Additionally, network segmentation and monitoring should be implemented to detect unauthorized access attempts and prevent exploitation of this and similar vulnerabilities across the enterprise infrastructure.