CVE-2015-8286 in RaySharp
Summary
by MITRE
Zhuhai RaySharp firmware has a hardcoded root password, which makes it easier for remote attackers to obtain access via a session on TCP port 23 or 9000.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/12/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-8286 represents a critical security flaw in the firmware of Zhuhai RaySharp network devices that exposes a hardcoded root password within the system configuration. This vulnerability falls under the category of weak authentication mechanisms and directly violates fundamental security principles by embedding administrative credentials in the firmware code itself. The presence of such hardcoded credentials creates an inherent backdoor that persists across device reboots and firmware updates, making it particularly dangerous for network infrastructure devices that are often deployed in unattended or remote locations.
The technical implementation of this flaw involves the inclusion of a default root password within the device firmware image, typically stored in plaintext or easily reversible formats within configuration files or memory segments. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by establishing connections to the device through TCP ports 23 or 9000, which are commonly used for telnet and custom administrative protocols respectively. This access method aligns with attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1075 credential access technique, where adversaries leverage legitimate credentials to gain system access. The vulnerability specifically maps to CWE-798, which addresses the use of hard-coded credentials, and CWE-259, which covers the use of weak password mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with full administrative privileges over the affected devices. This level of access enables malicious actors to modify network configurations, install malware, redirect traffic, or establish persistent backdoors within the network infrastructure. Network administrators may remain completely unaware of the compromise since the attack can occur without generating unusual network traffic patterns or triggering typical intrusion detection systems. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where these devices often serve as network gateways or security appliances, potentially allowing attackers to pivot to other network segments and escalate their privileges further.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-8286 require immediate action to address the hardcoded credential issue, including firmware updates from the vendor when available, network segmentation to limit access to these devices, and the implementation of network access controls to restrict connections to TCP ports 23 and 9000. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive inventory audits to identify all affected devices and implement monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized access attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of following security best practices such as those outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and ISO/IEC 27001 standards, particularly in the areas of access control and configuration management. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to identify similar hardcoded credentials in other network devices and software systems, as this represents a common pattern in embedded systems and IoT devices that often prioritize ease of deployment over security considerations.