CVE-2018-25069 in Netcore Router
Summary
by MITRE • 01/07/2023
A vulnerability classified as critical has been found in Netis Netcore Router. This affects an unknown part. The manipulation leads to use of hard-coded password. It is possible to initiate the attack remotely. The identifier VDB-217593 was assigned to this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/29/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-25069 represents a critical security flaw in Netis Netcore routers that exposes systems to remote exploitation through the use of hard-coded credentials. This vulnerability falls under the category of weak authentication mechanisms and specifically aligns with CWE-259, which addresses the use of hard-coded passwords in software systems. The affected device family demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the router's design where default authentication credentials remain unchanged and accessible to unauthorized parties. The vulnerability's classification as critical indicates the severe impact potential for remote attackers who can leverage this weakness to gain unauthorized access to network infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the router firmware containing hard-coded administrative credentials that are not properly secured or changed during the initial setup process. This flaw enables attackers to remotely access the device without requiring legitimate authentication, effectively bypassing all security controls that would normally protect the system. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it operates entirely over network protocols without requiring physical access or specialized tools. Security researchers have documented that such hard-coded credentials often remain in production firmware for extended periods, creating persistent attack surfaces that can be exploited by threat actors with minimal technical expertise. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can initiate the attack from any location with network connectivity to the affected device.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-25069 extends far beyond simple unauthorized access, as compromised routers can serve as entry points for broader network infiltration activities. Once attackers gain access to the router, they can manipulate network configurations, redirect traffic, intercept communications, and establish persistent backdoors within the network infrastructure. This vulnerability directly maps to several tactics in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to Initial Access through valid accounts and Persistence mechanisms that leverage network infrastructure. The compromised router can become a command and control node, enabling attackers to conduct advanced persistent threat operations while remaining undetected within the network. Organizations relying on Netis Netcore routers face significant risk of data breaches, network disruption, and potential lateral movement attacks that can compromise entire network ecosystems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action including firmware updates from the manufacturer, network segmentation to limit the impact of compromised devices, and comprehensive network monitoring to detect unauthorized access attempts. Security professionals should implement network access controls and regularly audit network devices to identify any remaining vulnerable systems. The remediation process must include changing all default credentials across the network infrastructure and establishing robust credential management policies. Organizations should also consider implementing network behavior analysis tools that can detect anomalous traffic patterns associated with compromised routers. According to industry best practices and security frameworks, this vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper authentication design and the necessity of avoiding hard-coded credentials in network infrastructure devices. Regular vulnerability assessments and security audits should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other network equipment and prevent future incidents of this nature.