CVE-2018-18567 in 440HD
Summary
by MITRE
AudioCodes 440HD and 450HD devices 3.1.2.89 and earlier allows man-in-the-middle attackers to obtain sensitive credential information by leveraging failure to validate X.509 certificates when used with an on-premise installation with Skype for Business.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/03/2023
The AudioCodes 440HD and 450HD communication devices present a critical man-in-the-middle vulnerability that compromises credential security during Skype for Business on-premise installations. This vulnerability stems from the devices' inadequate validation of X.509 certificates, creating a pathway for attackers to intercept and extract sensitive authentication information. The affected versions 3.1.2.89 and earlier fail to properly implement certificate validation mechanisms, leaving network communications susceptible to eavesdropping and credential theft.
The technical flaw manifests in the devices' inability to verify the authenticity and integrity of X.509 certificates presented during secure communications. This weakness allows malicious actors positioned between the device and the Skype for Business server to perform credential interception attacks, potentially gaining unauthorized access to corporate communication systems. The vulnerability specifically impacts environments where AudioCodes devices operate as part of on-premise Skype for Business deployments, where certificate validation should ensure secure communication channels between endpoints.
Operationally, this vulnerability poses significant risks to enterprise security infrastructure, particularly in organizations relying on Skype for Business for mission-critical communications. Attackers can exploit this weakness to obtain user credentials, potentially leading to full network compromise through lateral movement and privilege escalation. The impact extends beyond simple credential theft, as compromised devices may serve as entry points for broader network infiltration, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in corporate environments where communication systems are integral to business operations.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-295, which addresses improper certificate validation in security protocols, and represents a clear violation of secure communication standards. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this weakness enables techniques such as credential access through network sniffing and man-in-the-middle attacks, potentially leading to privilege escalation and persistence within the target network. Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation through firmware updates, implement additional network monitoring for suspicious certificate validation failures, and consider deploying certificate pinning mechanisms to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
The security implications extend beyond immediate credential compromise to encompass potential disruption of business communications and exposure of sensitive corporate data. Given that these devices are commonly deployed in enterprise environments, the vulnerability affects organizations across multiple sectors including finance, healthcare, and government agencies where communication security is paramount. Network administrators must conduct thorough assessments of their AudioCodes device deployments and implement layered security controls to protect against this specific threat vector while ensuring continued operational functionality of communication systems.