CVE-2024-38270 in GS1900-10HP
Summary
by MITRE • 09/10/2024
An insufficient entropy vulnerability caused by the improper use of a randomness function with low entropy for web authentication tokens generation exists in the Zyxel GS1900-10HP firmware version V2.80(AAZI.0)C0. This vulnerability could allow a LAN-based attacker a slight chance to gain a valid session token if multiple authenticated sessions are alive.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/10/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-38270 represents a critical weakness in the Zyxel GS1900-10HP network switch firmware version V2.80(AAZI.0)C0, specifically affecting the generation of web authentication tokens. This issue stems from the improper implementation of random number generation functions that exhibit insufficient entropy levels, creating predictable authentication tokens that can be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it exists within the core authentication mechanism of the network device, potentially allowing unauthorized access to network management interfaces. The weakness manifests when the system fails to utilize cryptographically secure random number generators, instead relying on pseudo-random functions that produce sequences with predictable patterns. This flaw enables attackers to potentially reconstruct valid session tokens through statistical analysis or brute force attempts, especially when multiple active sessions exist within the network environment. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by its location within the LAN attack surface, meaning that an attacker positioned within the same network segment can exploit this weakness without requiring external network access.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-330, which specifically addresses the use of insufficiently random values in security contexts. The improper use of low-entropy randomness functions directly violates fundamental cryptographic principles that require high entropy for security tokens and session identifiers. When network devices rely on predictable random number generators for authentication purposes, they create a vector through which attackers can compromise session management systems. The insufficient entropy means that the generated tokens do not provide adequate security margins against guessing attacks or pattern recognition techniques. This weakness is particularly dangerous because it affects the core session management functionality of the web interface, potentially allowing attackers to hijack active sessions and maintain persistent access to the network device. The vulnerability's exploitation requires only local network access, making it particularly attractive to attackers who have already gained access to the LAN environment through other means such as compromised endpoints or network sniffing activities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it fundamentally undermines the security model of the network device's web administration interface. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can potentially gain full administrative control over the switch, including the ability to modify network configurations, create or delete user accounts, and manipulate network traffic flows. The presence of multiple active sessions increases the attack surface, as each session token represents a potential entry point that can be targeted through statistical analysis or computational attacks. This vulnerability particularly affects network security posture by weakening the authentication layer that should protect critical network infrastructure. Organizations relying on Zyxel GS1900-10HP switches may experience unauthorized network access, configuration changes, and potential data exfiltration if this vulnerability is exploited. The attack vector's low complexity and high impact make it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where network switches serve as critical infrastructure components. The vulnerability also impacts compliance with industry security standards such as those outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, which emphasizes the importance of robust authentication mechanisms and secure session management.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-38270 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from Zyxel to address the root cause of the insufficient entropy implementation. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit LAN-based access to network devices, reducing the attack surface for local exploitation attempts. Network administrators should monitor for suspicious authentication activity and implement session management policies that automatically terminate inactive sessions to minimize the window of opportunity for token exploitation. The implementation of additional authentication layers such as two-factor authentication or certificate-based authentication can provide defense-in-depth against this specific vulnerability. Security teams should also consider deploying network monitoring tools to detect unusual authentication patterns or repeated login attempts that might indicate exploitation attempts. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other network infrastructure components. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing of updated firmware to ensure that the entropy implementation meets cryptographic standards and that no regressions have been introduced. Organizations should also review their incident response procedures to ensure readiness for potential exploitation of this vulnerability, particularly in environments where network switches are critical to business operations and where unauthorized access could result in significant operational or financial impact.