CVE-2016-3152 in ClickShare CSC-1
Summary
by MITRE
Barco ClickShare CSC-1 devices with firmware before 01.09.03 allow remote attackers to obtain the root password by downloading and extracting the firmware image.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/13/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-3152 affects Barco ClickShare CSC-1 devices running firmware versions prior to 01.09.03, representing a critical security flaw that exposes root credentials to remote attackers. This vulnerability falls under the category of insecure firmware design and weak credential management, with implications for device integrity and network security. The flaw stems from the improper handling of sensitive information within the firmware image, specifically the inclusion of the root password in a manner that allows extraction without authentication. The vulnerability is classified as a weakness in the firmware development lifecycle, where security-sensitive data should have been properly obfuscated or encrypted during the build process.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a straightforward process involving firmware image acquisition and extraction. Attackers can remotely download the firmware image from the device and then extract the root password using standard tools and techniques. This represents a classic example of insecure storage of credentials, where the password is stored in plaintext within the firmware image rather than being properly hashed or encrypted. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it eliminates the need for authentication or exploitation of network services, as the password is directly accessible within the firmware package. This flaw aligns with CWE-312 (Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) and CWE-259 (Use of Hard-coded Password) categories, indicating fundamental security misconfigurations in the device's firmware implementation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond the immediate compromise of individual devices, potentially affecting entire network infrastructures where multiple ClickShare devices are deployed. Once an attacker obtains the root password, they gain complete administrative control over the affected devices, enabling them to modify configurations, access network resources, and potentially use the compromised devices as entry points for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that remains active until firmware updates are applied, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where these devices are commonly used for presentations and collaborative work. This weakness can be exploited by attackers at the network level without requiring physical access or specialized knowledge beyond basic firmware analysis skills, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1078 (Valid Accounts) for lateral movement and privilege escalation.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigation strategies focusing on firmware updates and network segmentation. The primary remediation involves upgrading all affected devices to firmware version 01.09.03 or later, which addresses the insecure storage of credentials within the firmware image. Network administrators should also consider implementing additional security controls such as network access controls, monitoring for unauthorized firmware downloads, and regular security assessments of connected devices. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure firmware development practices and proper credential management, emphasizing the need for manufacturers to adopt security-by-design principles. Security teams should monitor for indicators of compromise related to firmware image analysis and unauthorized device access, while also considering the broader implications for device lifecycle management and security patching processes. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of treating firmware as a security boundary and ensuring that all sensitive information is properly protected throughout the device's operational lifecycle.