CVE-2016-2310 in Multilink ML
Summary
by MITRE
General Electric (GE) Multilink ML800, ML1200, ML1600, and ML2400 switches with firmware before 5.5.0 and ML810, ML3000, and ML3100 switches with firmware before 5.5.0k have hardcoded credentials, which allows remote attackers to modify configuration settings via the web interface.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/14/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-2310 affects multiple General Electric Multilink switch models including ML800, ML1200, ML1600, ML2400, ML810, ML3000, and ML3100 series. These network switches operate with firmware versions prior to 5.5.0 for the former models and 5.5.0k for the latter, creating a significant security weakness that exposes critical network infrastructure to unauthorized access. The flaw manifests through hardcoded credentials embedded within the device firmware, a practice that fundamentally undermines the security posture of these industrial network devices. This vulnerability represents a classic case of hard-coded credentials in network infrastructure, which falls under the CWE-798 weakness category, specifically addressing the exposure of sensitive information through hardcoded authentication credentials.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to the web interface of affected switches, enabling them to modify critical configuration settings without proper authentication. The hardcoded credentials typically consist of default usernames and passwords that remain unchanged across device deployments, providing attackers with persistent access vectors that persist through device reboots and firmware updates. This remote access capability enables attackers to manipulate network configurations, potentially leading to network disruption, data interception, or further lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no specialized tools or advanced techniques beyond basic network reconnaissance to identify and exploit the hardcoded credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it creates opportunities for attackers to establish persistent network footholds that can remain undetected for extended periods. Network administrators face the challenge of maintaining secure configurations when devices contain default credentials that are not properly changed during deployment, potentially allowing attackers to modify routing tables, access control lists, or other critical network parameters. The vulnerability particularly affects industrial control systems and network infrastructure where device management through web interfaces is common, making it a significant concern for operational technology environments. Organizations using these switches may experience service disruption, unauthorized network modifications, or potential data breaches that could compromise industrial processes and network security.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-2310 require immediate firmware updates to versions 5.5.0 or later for affected ML800, ML1200, ML1600, and ML2400 models, and 5.5.0k or later for ML810, ML3000, and ML3100 models. System administrators must also conduct comprehensive inventory assessments to identify all affected devices within their network infrastructure and ensure proper credential management practices are implemented. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit the potential impact of compromised devices, while regular security audits should verify that hardcoded credentials have been properly addressed. The vulnerability's classification under the ATT&CK framework as a credential access technique highlights the importance of implementing proper credential lifecycle management and regular security assessments to prevent exploitation of such weaknesses in industrial network environments.