CVE-2019-9531 in Explorer 710
Summary
by MITRE
The web application portal of the Cobham EXPLORER 710, firmware version 1.07, allows unauthenticated access to port 5454. This could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to connect to this port via Telnet and execute 86 Attention (AT) commands, including some that provide unauthenticated, shell-like access to the device.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/01/2020
The Cobham EXPLORER 710 is a specialized satellite communication device designed for maritime and aviation applications, serving as a critical component in global communications infrastructure. This device operates with firmware version 1.07 and includes a web application portal that exposes port 5454 to unauthenticated network access. The vulnerability exists within the device's network security configuration where default settings fail to properly restrict access to administrative ports, creating an exploitable entry point for remote attackers. This flaw represents a significant security weakness in a device that operates in sensitive operational environments where communication integrity and device security are paramount.
The technical flaw manifests as a lack of authentication mechanisms on port 5454 which is configured to accept Telnet connections without requiring proper credentials. This port serves as an administrative interface that allows execution of AT commands through the device's communication protocols. The vulnerability specifically enables unauthenticated remote attackers to establish Telnet sessions and execute commands that provide shell-like access to the underlying operating system. These AT commands are part of the Hayes-compatible modem command set that allows direct control over the device's communication functions and system resources. The flaw falls under CWE-287 which addresses improper authentication issues, specifically the absence of proper authentication mechanisms for critical administrative interfaces.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe for organizations relying on Cobham EXPLORER 710 devices for critical communications. Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to the device's command execution environment, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The ability to execute AT commands without authentication allows attackers to manipulate device configuration, intercept communications, or disable critical communication services. This vulnerability particularly affects maritime and aviation operations where these devices are deployed in remote locations with limited physical security controls, making remote exploitation particularly dangerous. The device's role in global communications infrastructure means that compromise of a single unit could potentially disrupt critical services for extended periods.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate network segmentation and access control implementation. Organizations should implement firewall rules to block external access to port 5454 and restrict access to only trusted administrative networks. Network administrators should verify that default administrative credentials are changed and that strong authentication mechanisms are enforced for all device management interfaces. The device should be updated to the latest firmware version if available, as Cobham may have released patches addressing this vulnerability. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unauthorized Telnet connections to the affected port, and regular security audits should verify that administrative interfaces are properly secured. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1075 which covers use of legitimate credentials, and T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, highlighting the need for comprehensive network security controls to prevent unauthorized access to administrative interfaces.