CVE-2019-19492 in FreeSWITCH
Summary
by MITRE
FreeSWITCH 1.6.10 through 1.10.1 has a default password in event_socket.conf.xml.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-19492 affects FreeSWITCH versions ranging from 1.6.10 through 1.10.1 and stems from a critical configuration flaw in the event_socket.conf.xml file. This issue represents a classic default credential vulnerability that allows unauthorized access to the FreeSWITCH event socket interface. The event socket serves as a critical communication channel for managing and monitoring FreeSWITCH operations, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it provides attackers with direct access to the underlying telephony system. The default password configuration persists across multiple versions of the software, indicating a systemic security oversight that affects a substantial portion of the FreeSWITCH user base. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-798, which specifically addresses the use of hard-coded credentials, and represents a fundamental failure in secure configuration management practices.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through the event_socket.conf.xml configuration file where default credentials are embedded within the software installation. Attackers can exploit this weakness by connecting to the event socket interface using the predetermined username and password combination, bypassing normal authentication mechanisms entirely. The event socket interface provides extensive administrative capabilities including the ability to originate calls, manipulate call flows, access system configuration, and potentially gain root access to the underlying system. This interface operates over TCP ports typically configured between 8021 and 8022, making it accessible to anyone who can reach these ports. The attack surface is further expanded because the event socket interface often runs with elevated privileges, meaning successful exploitation could result in complete system compromise. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation through default credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized access, as it enables attackers to assume full administrative control over telephony infrastructure. Organizations utilizing FreeSWITCH for voice services, call centers, or unified communications may find their entire telephony systems compromised, potentially leading to service disruption, eavesdropping on calls, fraudulent usage, and data exfiltration. The vulnerability affects both on-premises deployments and cloud-based implementations, making it particularly concerning for businesses that rely on FreeSWITCH for mission-critical communications. The default nature of the credentials means that even organizations with proper security protocols may be vulnerable if they fail to change these defaults during initial installation. The attack vector is straightforward and requires minimal technical expertise, making it attractive to both opportunistic attackers and more sophisticated threat actors. Additionally, the vulnerability can be exploited for lateral movement within networks where FreeSWITCH systems are integrated with other infrastructure components, as the compromised system can serve as a launching point for further attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-19492 require immediate action to address the default credential configuration. Organizations must first identify all affected FreeSWITCH installations and then update the event_socket.conf.xml file to implement strong, unique passwords for the event socket interface. This process should include disabling default accounts and implementing proper access control lists to restrict which IP addresses can connect to the event socket. Network segmentation should be employed to isolate the event socket ports from unauthorized network segments, and firewall rules should be implemented to limit access to trusted administrative networks only. Regular security audits should include verification of default credential configurations across all system components, and automated tools can be deployed to scan for and report on default credentials in use. The remediation process should also involve updating to the latest stable version of FreeSWITCH where this vulnerability has been addressed, as newer releases typically include improved default configurations and enhanced security features. Security awareness training for system administrators should emphasize the critical importance of changing default credentials immediately upon system installation and implementing robust password policies for all administrative accounts.