CVE-2016-10309 in FibeAir IP-10
Summary
by MITRE
In the GUI of Ceragon FibeAir IP-10 (before 7.2.0) devices, a remote attacker can bypass authentication by adding an ALBATROSS cookie with the value 0-4-11 to their browser.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/24/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10309 affects the graphical user interface of Ceragon FibeAir IP-10 network devices running firmware versions prior to 7.2.0. This represents a critical authentication bypass flaw that allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to administrative functions without proper credentials. The vulnerability specifically targets the web-based management interface of these telecommunications equipment devices, which are commonly deployed in wireless backhaul networks for connecting base stations to core networks.
The technical mechanism behind this vulnerability involves the improper handling of authentication tokens within the device's web interface. Attackers can exploit this weakness by manipulating browser cookies, specifically by injecting an ALBATROSS cookie with the value 0-4-11 into their HTTP requests. This particular cookie value serves as a backdoor mechanism that circumvents the normal authentication process, effectively granting full administrative access to the device. The flaw demonstrates a classic case of insecure direct object reference where the system fails to properly validate the authenticity and integrity of the authentication token.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it enables remote attackers to completely compromise the affected network equipment. Once authenticated, an attacker can modify network configurations, access sensitive operational data, install malicious firmware, or even disrupt network services. This authentication bypass affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the network infrastructure, potentially leading to widespread service outages or data breaches. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to gain administrative privileges without requiring any knowledge of legitimate credentials or physical access to the device.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues in software systems, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1078.004 for valid accounts usage. The flaw represents a failure in the device's authentication mechanism and demonstrates poor input validation practices in web applications. Organizations using Ceragon FibeAir IP-10 devices should immediately implement firmware updates to version 7.2.0 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address this authentication bypass vulnerability. Additionally, network administrators should consider implementing network segmentation, monitoring for suspicious cookie values, and conducting regular security assessments of their telecommunications infrastructure to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities.
The broader implications of this vulnerability extend beyond individual device compromise to affect entire network operations. Given that these devices are typically deployed in critical telecommunications infrastructure, the potential for cascading failures or service disruptions is significant. Network operators should also review their overall security posture and implement additional defensive measures such as web application firewalls, regular security audits, and incident response procedures specifically tailored for network equipment vulnerabilities. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping network infrastructure firmware up to date and maintaining robust security practices throughout the operational lifecycle of telecommunications equipment.