CVE-2015-6412 in Modular Encoding Platform D9036
Summary
by MITRE
Cisco Modular Encoding Platform D9036 Software before 02.04.70 has hardcoded (1) root and (2) guest passwords, which makes it easier for remote attackers to obtain access via an SSH session, aka Bug ID CSCut88070.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/02/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-6412 affects Cisco Modular Encoding Platform D9036 software versions prior to 02.04.70, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the authentication mechanisms of the affected system. This issue stems from the inclusion of hardcoded credentials within the software implementation, creating a persistent security weakness that persists across system updates and deployments. The vulnerability specifically impacts the SSH access mechanism, which is a fundamental component for remote system administration and management in networked environments.
The technical flaw manifests through the inclusion of hardcoded root and guest passwords within the software binaries of the Cisco Modular Encoding Platform D9036. This approach violates fundamental security principles by embedding authentication credentials directly into the software code rather than implementing dynamic or generated authentication mechanisms. The presence of these hardcoded credentials means that any individual possessing knowledge of the specific vulnerability or accessing the software documentation can readily exploit this weakness to gain unauthorized administrative access. This flaw directly maps to CWE-798, which categorizes the use of hardcoded credentials as a severe security vulnerability, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004 for valid accounts using default credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it provides remote attackers with an uncomplicated path to system compromise without requiring advanced exploitation techniques or additional attack vectors. The SSH protocol, which is commonly used for secure remote administration, becomes a gateway for unauthorized access when hardcoded credentials are present. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent access, potentially leading to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, or use of the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the system, as unauthorized parties can access sensitive operational data and configuration information.
Organizations utilizing affected Cisco Modular Encoding Platform D9036 systems should immediately implement mitigation strategies including applying the vendor-provided security patch version 02.04.70 or later. The patch addresses the hardcoded credential issue by implementing proper authentication mechanisms that do not rely on static passwords embedded within the software. Additionally, network segmentation and access control measures should be enforced to limit SSH access to authorized personnel only, while monitoring systems should be deployed to detect unauthorized access attempts. Security teams should also conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any other instances of hardcoded credentials within their network infrastructure, as this vulnerability represents a broader class of security issues that require systematic remediation approaches. The remediation process should include establishing proper credential management procedures and implementing automated tools to detect hardcoded credentials during software development and deployment cycles.