CVE-2022-40242 in MegaRAC
Summary
by MITRE • 12/06/2022
MegaRAC Default Credentials Vulnerability
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/31/2022
The CVE-2022-40242 vulnerability represents a critical default credential weakness in Dell MegaRAC remote management controllers that affects numerous enterprise server deployments. This vulnerability stems from the improper configuration of default administrative credentials that remain unchanged in many deployed systems, creating a persistent security risk that can be exploited by malicious actors to gain unauthorized access to critical infrastructure components. The flaw specifically impacts MegaRAC implementations across Dell PowerEdge servers and other hardware platforms that utilize this remote management technology, making it a widespread concern for organizations maintaining large server fleets.
The technical nature of this vulnerability resides in the persistent use of hardcoded default usernames and passwords that are well-documented within vendor documentation and publicly available resources. Attackers can readily obtain these credentials through standard security research channels or automated scanning tools, enabling them to establish unauthorized administrative sessions with full privileges over the affected systems. This weakness operates at the authentication layer and represents a classic example of poor security configuration management that violates fundamental principles of least privilege and secure defaults. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-798, which specifically addresses the use of hardcoded credentials, and demonstrates how default configurations can create persistent attack vectors that require ongoing management and monitoring.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with the ability to execute arbitrary commands, modify system configurations, access sensitive data, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within network infrastructure. Organizations utilizing affected MegaRAC implementations face significant risks including data breaches, system compromise, and potential lateral movement within their networks. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to complete system takeover, enabling attackers to manipulate server settings, install malicious software, or use compromised systems as launching points for attacks against other network segments. This represents a critical concern for organizations following ATT&CK framework's T1078.004 technique for valid accounts and T1046 for network service scanning, as the default credentials bypass traditional network security controls.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-40242 require immediate action including changing all default administrative credentials to strong, unique passwords that meet enterprise security policies. Organizations should implement comprehensive credential management procedures that include regular password rotation, multi-factor authentication where possible, and network segmentation to limit access to management interfaces. Security teams must conduct thorough inventory assessments to identify all affected MegaRAC implementations and ensure proper patching procedures are followed. The remediation process should include disabling unnecessary management interfaces, implementing network access controls, and establishing monitoring procedures to detect unauthorized access attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing privileged access management solutions and regular security assessments to prevent similar configuration weaknesses from emerging in future deployments. This vulnerability underscores the importance of secure configuration management and demonstrates how basic security practices can prevent widespread compromise of critical infrastructure components.