CVE-2017-6687 in Ultra Services Framework Element Manager
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability in Cisco Ultra Services Framework Element Manager could allow an authenticated, remote attacker with access to the management network to log in to the affected device using default credentials present on the system, aka an Insecure Default Password Vulnerability. More Information: CSCvc76695. Known Affected Releases: 21.0.0.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/27/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-6687 represents a critical security weakness within Cisco Ultra Services Framework Element Manager version 21.0.0, classified under CWE-798 as the use of hard-coded credentials. This flaw enables authenticated remote attackers who have access to the management network to exploit default credentials that remain unchanged on the system, creating a significant pathway for unauthorized access. The vulnerability stems from the improper implementation of authentication mechanisms where default passwords are not only present but also remain active throughout the device lifecycle, violating fundamental security principles of credential management and access control.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a straightforward authentication bypass mechanism that leverages default administrative credentials. An attacker with network access to the management interface can simply attempt to log in using pre-configured default username and password combinations that are typically documented in vendor knowledge bases or security research databases. This weakness directly impacts the device's authentication framework, allowing privilege escalation from standard user access to administrative control without requiring additional exploitation techniques or complex attack vectors. The vulnerability exists specifically within the Element Manager component of Cisco Ultra Services Framework, which serves as the centralized management interface for the service framework.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses severe risks to network infrastructure security as it allows attackers to gain full administrative control over the affected device, potentially enabling them to modify configurations, access sensitive data, install malicious software, or disrupt services. The impact extends beyond individual device compromise to potentially affect entire network segments if the Element Manager serves as a central point of control for multiple services or devices within the Ultra Services Framework. Organizations may face regulatory compliance violations, data breaches, and operational disruptions when such default credentials remain active, particularly in environments where management network access is not properly segmented or monitored.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-6687 should prioritize immediate credential management actions including changing all default passwords to strong, unique administrative credentials, implementing robust password policies, and ensuring proper access control mechanisms are in place. Network segmentation of management interfaces should be enforced to limit access to authorized personnel only, while implementing continuous monitoring and logging of authentication attempts to detect potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider disabling unnecessary default accounts, implementing multi-factor authentication for administrative access, and conducting regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar hardcoded credential vulnerabilities. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004 which involves legitimate credentials used for lateral movement, and represents a classic example of how default credentials can undermine security posture despite being well-documented in security best practices and industry standards.