CVE-2018-10167 in EAP Controller
Summary
by MITRE
The web application backup file in the TP-Link EAP Controller and Omada Controller versions 2.5.4_Windows/2.6.0_Windows is encrypted with a hard-coded cryptographic key, so anyone who knows that key and the algorithm can decrypt it. A low-privilege user could decrypt and modify the backup file in order to elevate their privileges. This is fixed in version 2.6.1_Windows.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/02/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-10167 affects TP-Link EAP Controller and Omada Controller versions 2.5.4_Windows and 2.6.0_Windows, representing a critical cryptographic weakness that undermines the security of backup file encryption mechanisms. This flaw resides in the web application backup functionality where the system employs a hard-coded cryptographic key for encryption purposes, creating a fundamental design flaw that violates established security principles. The vulnerability demonstrates poor implementation of cryptographic practices where the encryption key is embedded within the software code rather than being dynamically generated or securely managed, making it accessible to any attacker who can obtain the necessary information about the encryption algorithm and key.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the use of a hardcoded key approach that directly violates multiple security standards including those outlined in the Common Weakness Enumeration (CWE) category CWE-327, which addresses the use of weak cryptographic algorithms and hardcoded keys. The backup files generated by these controllers contain sensitive configuration data, user credentials, and system settings that are encrypted using this predictable key, allowing unauthorized users to decrypt and subsequently modify these files. This represents a privilege escalation vector where low-privilege users can exploit the predictable encryption to gain elevated access rights within the system. The attack requires knowledge of both the specific encryption algorithm and the hard-coded key, which are typically embedded within the application binaries or documentation accessible through reverse engineering efforts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data confidentiality breaches, as it enables full system compromise through privilege escalation attacks. When an attacker successfully decrypts the backup files, they can modify critical system parameters, inject malicious configurations, or manipulate user access controls to achieve unauthorized system access. This vulnerability directly maps to the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the Privilege Escalation tactic, specifically targeting the technique of "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation" where attackers leverage weaknesses in system components to gain elevated privileges. The impact is particularly severe because it affects the core administrative functionality of these network management controllers, potentially allowing attackers to take complete control of wireless network infrastructure managed by these systems.
The mitigation for this vulnerability requires immediate upgrade to version 2.6.1_Windows or later, which addresses the hardcoded key issue through proper cryptographic implementation practices. Organizations should implement comprehensive network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure while upgrading systems, as the vulnerability can be exploited from any location where the controller is accessible. Security teams should also conduct thorough audits of backup files and encryption implementations across all network management systems, particularly those from vendors with similar cryptographic practices. The fix demonstrates proper cryptographic implementation by ensuring that encryption keys are no longer hardcoded but instead generated dynamically or managed through secure key management systems. This vulnerability serves as a stark reminder of the importance of following cryptographic best practices and avoiding hard-coded secrets in security implementations, as outlined in industry standards such as NIST SP 800-57 for cryptographic key management and the OWASP Top Ten for secure coding practices.