CVE-2024-28093 in NetVanta
Summary
by MITRE • 03/26/2024
The TELNET service of AdTran NetVanta 3120 18.01.01.00.E devices is enabled by default, and has default credentials for a root-level account.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/04/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-28093 affects the TELNET service implementation within AdTran NetVanta 3120 18.01.01.00.E network devices, representing a critical security weakness that directly exposes administrative access to unauthorized parties. This issue stems from the default configuration where the TELNET service operates without proper authentication mechanisms, creating an immediate entry point for malicious actors seeking to compromise the device's administrative functions. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-255, which addresses credentials management flaws, specifically focusing on the improper handling of authentication credentials within network infrastructure equipment. The device's default configuration enables TELNET access with hardcoded root-level credentials, creating a persistent security risk that aligns with ATT&CK technique T1075 which describes legitimate credentials for lateral movement within network environments.
The technical flaw manifests through the device's failure to properly secure the TELNET service interface, which operates on the standard port 23 without encryption or robust authentication. The default credentials for the root account are well-documented and readily available, making the exploitation of this vulnerability straightforward for threat actors. This configuration violates fundamental security principles outlined in NIST SP 800-53 and ISO/IEC 27001 standards, particularly in the areas of access control and system configuration management. The TELNET protocol itself lacks encryption capabilities, meaning that any credentials transmitted during authentication are vulnerable to interception and replay attacks. The vulnerability creates a direct pathway for attackers to gain full administrative control over the device, potentially enabling them to modify network configurations, redirect traffic, or establish persistent backdoors within the network infrastructure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond the immediate compromise of a single device, as it provides attackers with a foothold for broader network infiltration. Once an attacker gains root access through the default TELNET credentials, they can leverage the device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the same network segment. This threat scenario aligns with ATT&CK technique T1018 which describes remote system discovery, and T1046 which addresses network service scanning. The compromised device may also serve as a command and control point for orchestrating further attacks or as a relay for conducting man-in-the-middle attacks against network communications. Network administrators face significant challenges in detecting such compromises, as the TELNET service may appear normal from network monitoring perspectives, and the default credentials are often overlooked during security assessments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-28093 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security posture improvements. The primary recommendation involves disabling the TELNET service entirely and implementing secure alternatives such as SSH for remote administration, which provides encrypted communication channels and robust authentication mechanisms. Network segmentation should be enforced to isolate critical infrastructure devices from general network access, reducing the attack surface available to potential adversaries. Regular security assessments and configuration audits are essential to identify and remediate similar default configurations across all network equipment. Organizations should implement automated patch management processes to ensure timely updates to device firmware and security patches. The mitigation approach should also include monitoring for unauthorized TELNET connections and implementing network access controls to restrict which systems can communicate with the device's management interfaces. Compliance with security standards such as NIST SP 800-53 and CIS Controls should be maintained to ensure comprehensive protection against similar vulnerabilities in network infrastructure devices.