CVE-2019-3950 in Basestation
Summary
by MITRE
Arlo Basestation firmware 1.12.0.1_27940 and prior contain a hardcoded username and password combination that allows root access to the device when an onboard serial interface is connected to.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/24/2023
The Arlo Basestation firmware vulnerability represents a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of connected home security systems through a hardcoded authentication mechanism. This vulnerability affects firmware versions 1.12.0.1_27940 and earlier, creating a persistent backdoor access vector that can be exploited by attackers with physical access to the device's serial interface. The flaw manifests as a hardcoded username and password combination that grants root access privileges directly to the system, bypassing all normal authentication mechanisms and security controls.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from poor secure coding practices where developers embedded default credentials directly into the firmware code rather than implementing proper dynamic authentication mechanisms. This hardcoded credential combination exists within the device's firmware image and remains unchanged across all affected versions, making it a persistent threat that cannot be resolved through software updates alone. The vulnerability specifically targets the onboard serial interface, which provides direct access to the device's underlying operating system and allows attackers to establish a privileged session with root-level permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass complete system compromise and potential data exfiltration. An attacker with physical access to the serial interface can leverage this hardcoded credential combination to gain root access, enabling them to modify firmware components, extract stored security credentials, access surveillance footage, and potentially manipulate the device's operational parameters. This access level allows for complete control over the security system, including the ability to disable monitoring functions, modify device settings, and establish persistent access points. The vulnerability creates a significant risk for enterprise and residential security deployments where physical access to devices may be compromised.
Security practitioners should recognize this vulnerability as a clear example of CWE-798, which specifically addresses the use of hardcoded credentials in software applications. The flaw also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1072, which describes the use of software deployment tools and utilities to gain system access. Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including physical security controls to prevent unauthorized access to device serial interfaces, firmware version verification to ensure all devices are updated to versions containing fixed credential implementations, and network segmentation to limit potential lateral movement if physical access is compromised. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of secure development practices and the necessity of implementing proper credential management mechanisms in embedded systems to prevent such persistent backdoor access vectors.