CVE-2022-38394 in AR260S V2
Summary
by MITRE • 09/08/2022
Use of hard-coded credentials for the telnet server of CentreCOM AR260S V2 firmware versions prior to Ver.3.3.7 allows a remote unauthenticated attacker to execute an arbitrary OS command.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/14/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-38394 affects CentreCOM AR260S V2 devices running firmware versions prior to Ver.3.3.7, presenting a critical security risk through the use of hard-coded credentials in the telnet server implementation. This flaw represents a fundamental design weakness that directly violates security best practices and industry standards such as those outlined in CWE-259, which specifically addresses the use of hard-coded passwords or cryptographic keys. The vulnerability exists within the device's network services configuration where default authentication credentials are embedded directly into the firmware code rather than being dynamically generated or securely stored.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the telnet service which remains accessible to remote attackers without authentication requirements. When an attacker connects to the telnet server using the hard-coded credentials, they gain unauthorized access to the underlying operating system of the device. This remote access capability allows for arbitrary OS command execution, providing attackers with full control over the device's operational environment. The nature of this flaw enables attackers to perform actions such as modifying device configurations, accessing sensitive data, installing malicious software, or using the device as a pivot point for further network attacks.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations deploying CentreCOM AR260S V2 devices in their network infrastructure. The remote unauthenticated nature of the attack means that adversaries can exploit this weakness from anywhere on the internet without requiring prior access to the network or knowledge of legitimate user credentials. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1021.001 for remote services and T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, enabling attackers to establish persistent access and execute malicious commands. The implications extend beyond individual device compromise, as these devices often serve as network gateways or security appliances where unauthorized access can lead to broader network infiltration and data breaches.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including firmware updates to Ver.3.3.7 or later versions where the hard-coded credentials have been removed or properly secured. Network segmentation should be implemented to limit access to these devices, and telnet services should be disabled entirely where possible in favor of more secure protocols such as SSH. Security monitoring should include detection of unauthorized telnet connections and unusual command execution patterns. Additionally, the vulnerability highlights the importance of secure development practices and regular security assessments of network equipment to prevent similar issues in the future, aligning with NIST SP 800-53 security controls and the principle of least privilege as outlined in CWE-259 standards.