CVE-2023-5074 in D-View 8
Summary
by MITRE • 09/20/2023
Use of a static key to protect a JWT token used in user authentication can allow an for an authentication bypass in D-Link D-View 8 v2.0.1.28
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/20/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-5074 resides within the D-Link D-View 8 v2.0.1.28 video surveillance management system where a static cryptographic key is employed to generate and validate JSON Web Tokens for user authentication purposes. This represents a critical security flaw that directly undermines the system's ability to properly authenticate users and maintain secure access controls. The use of a hardcoded or static key in JWT token generation creates a fundamental weakness that allows unauthorized parties to forge authentication tokens and gain administrative access to the surveillance system without proper credentials.
This vulnerability operates at the intersection of several security principles and can be categorized under CWE-327, which addresses the use of weak cryptographic algorithms or improper cryptographic key management. The static key implementation violates fundamental security practices for token-based authentication systems and creates a persistent attack surface that remains exploitable across multiple sessions. The flaw specifically affects the authentication mechanism of the D-Link D-View 8 system, where the same cryptographic key is used across all token generations, eliminating the cryptographic entropy that should be present in properly implemented JWT systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with the ability to perform complete administrative operations within the surveillance environment. An attacker who discovers or can extract the static key can generate valid JWT tokens for any user account, including administrative accounts, effectively bypassing all authentication controls. This creates a scenario where unauthorized individuals can view, modify, or delete surveillance footage, change system configurations, and potentially access other connected devices within the network. The implications are particularly severe for security monitoring environments where the integrity and confidentiality of surveillance data is paramount.
From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566, specifically targeting credential access through the exploitation of weak authentication mechanisms. The static key vulnerability allows for persistent access without requiring additional reconnaissance or exploitation of other system components. The attack surface is minimized for potential defenders as the vulnerability can be exploited through a single vector once the static key is identified or obtained through reverse engineering of the application. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring for unusual authentication patterns that might indicate token forging activities.
The recommended mitigations for this vulnerability include immediate implementation of dynamic key generation for JWT tokens, proper cryptographic key management practices, and regular rotation of authentication tokens. System administrators should ensure that the D-Link D-View 8 system is updated to a version that addresses this specific vulnerability, as the manufacturer should provide a patched release with proper cryptographic implementations. Additionally, organizations should implement monitoring for unauthorized access attempts and consider implementing additional authentication layers such as multi-factor authentication to provide defense in depth. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of avoiding hardcoded credentials and static keys in security-critical applications, particularly in systems handling sensitive surveillance data where the consequences of unauthorized access can be severe.