CVE-2017-6640 in Prime Data Center Network Manager
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability in Cisco Prime Data Center Network Manager (DCNM) Software could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to log in to the administrative console of a DCNM server by using an account that has a default, static password. The account could be granted root- or system-level privileges. The vulnerability exists because the affected software has a default user account that has a default, static password. The user account is created automatically when the software is installed. An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by connecting remotely to an affected system and logging in to the affected software by using the credentials for this default user account. A successful exploit could allow the attacker to use this default user account to log in to the affected software and gain access to the administrative console of a DCNM server. This vulnerability affects Cisco Prime Data Center Network Manager (DCNM) Software releases prior to Release 10.2(1) for Microsoft Windows, Linux, and Virtual Appliance platforms. Cisco Bug IDs: CSCvd95346.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/26/2020
The vulnerability described in CVE-2017-6640 represents a critical security flaw in Cisco Prime Data Center Network Manager (DCNM) software that exposes administrative access to unauthenticated remote attackers. This issue stems from the improper configuration of default accounts with static passwords, creating a persistent backdoor that remains active throughout the software lifecycle. The vulnerability specifically affects DCNM releases prior to version 10.2(1) across multiple platforms including Microsoft Windows, Linux, and Virtual Appliance environments. The flaw aligns with CWE-798, which categorizes the use of hard-coded credentials as a significant security risk, and demonstrates how default configurations can undermine security posture when not properly addressed during deployment.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a straightforward remote authentication process that does not require any special privileges or advanced techniques from the attacker's perspective. The default user account is automatically created during software installation and maintains a static password that remains unchanged throughout the system's operational life. This design flaw allows an attacker to establish a remote connection to the DCNM server and authenticate using the default credentials to gain access to the administrative console. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as the compromised account can be granted root or system-level privileges, providing attackers with complete control over the network management infrastructure. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no authentication challenges, network reconnaissance, or exploitation of additional vulnerabilities.
The operational consequences of this vulnerability are severe for organizations relying on Cisco DCNM for data center network management. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can manipulate network configurations, access sensitive network data, disrupt services, and potentially escalate privileges to gain full administrative control over the DCNM server. This compromise directly affects the integrity and availability of network management operations, as the attacker can modify network policies, access logs, and configuration settings that govern the data center network infrastructure. The vulnerability also creates a persistent threat that remains active until the software is upgraded to a patched version, making it particularly dangerous for organizations with limited patch management capabilities or those operating legacy systems.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement several mitigation strategies to reduce the risk of exploitation. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to Cisco DCNM Release 10.2(1) or later versions where the default account has been properly secured or removed from the installation process. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit remote access to the DCNM server, while firewall rules should restrict inbound connections to only necessary ports and IP addresses. The implementation of network monitoring solutions can help detect unauthorized access attempts to the DCNM server, and regular security audits should verify that default accounts have been properly disabled or secured. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following security best practices such as those outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation through default credentials. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management processes to ensure timely deployment of security updates and reduce the window of exposure to known vulnerabilities.