CVE-2018-10091 in IP Phone 420HD
Summary
by MITRE
AudioCodes IP phone 420HD devices using firmware version 2.2.12.126 allow XSS.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/03/2023
The AudioCodes IP phone 420HD represents a critical endpoint device within enterprise communication infrastructures, particularly vulnerable to cross-site scripting attacks through its web-based administrative interface. This device operates as a VoIP phone system component that requires regular firmware updates to maintain security posture, yet version 2.2.12.126 contains a significant vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into the device's web interface. The vulnerability manifests in the device's handling of user-supplied input within web forms and parameters, creating an opportunity for attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the context of the device's administrative interface. This represents a severe security flaw as it provides unauthorized access to administrative functions that control device configuration, network settings, and potentially sensitive communication parameters.
The technical implementation of this cross-site scripting vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output encoding within the device's web server components. When users interact with the administrative web interface, particularly when entering data into forms or manipulating URL parameters, the device fails to properly sanitize user input before rendering it back to the browser. This allows attackers to inject malicious JavaScript payloads that execute within the browser context of authenticated administrators. The vulnerability is classified as CWE-79, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for scripting languages. The attack vector typically involves crafting malicious URLs or form submissions that contain JavaScript code, which then executes when administrators access the device's web interface, potentially leading to complete device compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it provides attackers with the ability to manipulate the device's configuration, access sensitive network information, and potentially use the compromised device as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to modify dial plans, alter network settings, or even redirect calls to malicious destinations. The compromise of an IP phone device can significantly impact business continuity, as these devices often serve as critical communication endpoints for enterprise networks. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability enables techniques such as T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage and T1566 for credential access through social engineering, as attackers can craft convincing phishing attempts that appear to originate from legitimate administrative interfaces. The vulnerability also facilitates persistent access patterns through T1078 for legitimate credentials and T1543 for persistence mechanisms, as attackers can establish backdoors or maintain access through the compromised device.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate firmware updates to versions that address the XSS flaw, as AudioCodes has released patches specifically for this issue. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit access to the device's administrative interface to authorized personnel only, reducing the attack surface. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other networked devices, particularly those running legacy firmware versions. The implementation of web application firewalls and input validation controls can provide additional layers of protection, while monitoring for suspicious network traffic patterns can help detect exploitation attempts. Organizations should also establish robust patch management processes to ensure timely deployment of security updates across all networked devices, as this vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining current firmware versions to protect against known exploits.