CVE-2014-8424 in VAP2500
Summary
by MITRE
ARRIS VAP2500 before FW08.41 does not properly validate passwords, which allows remote attackers to bypass authentication.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/18/2024
The CVE-2014-8424 vulnerability affects ARRIS VAP2500 wireless access points running firmware versions prior to FW08.41, representing a critical authentication bypass flaw that undermines the device's security posture. This vulnerability stems from inadequate password validation mechanisms within the device's authentication system, creating a pathway for remote attackers to gain unauthorized access without proper credentials. The flaw exists at the application layer where password verification logic fails to properly enforce authentication requirements, allowing malicious actors to exploit this weakness from external network positions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a classic authentication weakness that aligns with CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication scenarios in networked applications. The device's firmware fails to implement robust password validation checks that would normally verify credential strength and proper authentication sequences. Attackers can leverage this flaw to establish unauthorized administrative sessions, potentially gaining full control over the wireless access point configuration and network access policies. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access or network proximity to the device to capitalize on this weakness.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant security risks for organizations relying on ARRIS VAP2500 devices for wireless network infrastructure. The authentication bypass allows attackers to modify wireless network settings, implement malicious configuration changes, and potentially establish persistent access points within the network. Network administrators may lose visibility into wireless access point activities, as unauthorized modifications can occur without detection. The vulnerability also enables potential lateral movement within networks where these access points serve as critical infrastructure components, supporting the attacker's ability to expand their access privileges across the network.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically mapping it to techniques involving credential access and privilege escalation. The vulnerability enables adversaries to perform initial access through authentication bypass, potentially leading to further compromise of network resources. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including firmware updates to FW08.41 or later versions, which address the password validation weakness. Network segmentation strategies should be employed to limit the potential impact of such compromises, while monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual authentication patterns or configuration changes. Additionally, regular security assessments should verify that all wireless infrastructure components have been updated to address known vulnerabilities and maintain compliance with industry security standards.