CVE-2015-4629 in E5756S
Summary
by MITRE
Huawei E5756S before V200R002B146D23SP00C00 allows remote attackers to read device configuration information, enable PIN/PUK authentication, and perform other unspecified actions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/13/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-4629 affects Huawei E5756S mobile broadband devices running firmware versions prior to V200R002B146D23SP00C00. This security flaw represents a critical weakness in the device's authentication and configuration management mechanisms, potentially allowing unauthorized remote access to sensitive system information. The vulnerability stems from insufficient access controls and inadequate input validation within the device's web interface and management protocols, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the device's configuration subsystem.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves improper authentication mechanisms that fail to adequately verify user credentials before granting access to administrative functions. Attackers can leverage this weakness to read device configuration information without proper authorization, effectively bypassing the intended security boundaries. The flaw enables unauthorized users to access sensitive data including network configuration parameters, authentication credentials, and other system settings that should remain protected. This represents a direct violation of the principle of least privilege and demonstrates a failure in implementing proper access control measures. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through network-based attacks without requiring physical access to the device.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-4629 extends beyond simple information disclosure to encompass potential system compromise and unauthorized administrative actions. Remote attackers can not only read configuration data but also enable PIN/PUK authentication mechanisms, which could lead to further exploitation opportunities including device lockout scenarios or unauthorized network access. This vulnerability creates a persistent security risk for organizations relying on Huawei E5756S devices, as it allows attackers to gain unauthorized access to network infrastructure and potentially establish persistent access points. The impact is particularly severe in environments where these devices serve as primary network connectivity solutions or where they are deployed in sensitive locations without proper network segmentation.
Organizations should immediately implement firmware updates to address this vulnerability, as the affected Huawei E5756S devices require patching to remediate the authentication bypass mechanisms. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to device management interfaces, particularly when devices are deployed in environments where physical security cannot be guaranteed. Regular security assessments should include verification of device firmware versions and configuration settings to ensure that authentication mechanisms remain properly enforced. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control, and maps to attack techniques in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under privilege escalation and credential access categories. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions to detect unusual access patterns or attempts to query device configuration information that may indicate exploitation attempts.