CVE-2023-0355 in E11
Summary
by MITRE • 03/13/2023
Akuvox E11 uses a hard-coded cryptographic key, which could allow an attacker to decrypt sensitive information.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/02/2023
The Akuvox E11 device presents a critical cryptographic vulnerability through the use of a hard-coded key that undermines the security of encrypted communications and data protection mechanisms. This vulnerability represents a fundamental flaw in the device's implementation of cryptographic security controls, where the same encryption key is embedded within the firmware or software components of the system. The presence of such a hard-coded key creates a persistent security weakness that persists across device deployments and updates, fundamentally compromising the confidentiality assurances that should be provided by cryptographic protection.
This vulnerability falls under the category of weak cryptographic key management as defined by CWE-327, specifically addressing the improper use of hard-coded cryptographic keys. The device's architecture fails to implement proper key generation, distribution, and management processes that would normally be required for secure cryptographic operations. Attackers who gain access to the device or can observe network traffic can exploit this hard-coded key to decrypt sensitive communications, potentially gaining access to voice data, user credentials, or other confidential information transmitted through the system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects the core security infrastructure of the device rather than being a mere configuration issue.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure to encompass broader security implications for networked environments where the Akuvox E11 devices are deployed. Organizations using these devices may face significant risks including unauthorized access to communication channels, potential man-in-the-middle attacks, and compromise of user privacy. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to perform advanced persistent threats where they can maintain long-term access to encrypted communications. From an attacker perspective, this represents a low-effort, high-impact vector that requires minimal technical skill to exploit, making it particularly dangerous in environments where physical access to devices or network monitoring capabilities are available.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the attack surface and potential lateral movement opportunities it provides. The ATT&CK framework would categorize this as a credential access technique, specifically leveraging hard-coded credentials or keys for unauthorized access. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including network segmentation to limit access to affected devices, monitoring for unusual network traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, and conducting comprehensive inventory assessments to identify all deployed instances. Additionally, the vulnerability highlights the importance of secure development practices and proper cryptographic key management as outlined in industry standards such as NIST SP 800-57 and ISO/IEC 15408. The recommended approach involves replacing the device firmware with patched versions that implement proper key management protocols or physically isolating affected devices from critical network segments until comprehensive security measures can be implemented.