CVE-2024-52884 in Mediant Session Border Controller
Summary
by MITRE • 02/07/2025
An issue was discovered in AudioCodes Mediant Session Border Controller (SBC) before 7.40A.501.841. Due to the use of weak password obfuscation/encryption, an attacker with access to configuration exports (INI) is able to decrypt the passwords.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/01/2025
The AudioCodes Mediant Session Border Controller SBC vulnerability CVE-2024-52884 represents a critical security flaw in the device's password handling mechanisms that directly impacts the confidentiality and integrity of network security configurations. This vulnerability affects versions prior to 7.40A.501.841 and stems from the implementation of weak encryption or obfuscation techniques used to protect passwords within the system's configuration files. The flaw specifically manifests when attackers gain access to configuration exports in INI format, which contain sensitive authentication credentials that should remain protected from unauthorized access.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the use of insufficiently strong cryptographic methods or predictable obfuscation algorithms that allow adversaries to reverse-engineer or decrypt password values stored in configuration files. This weakness falls under the category of cryptographic weakness as defined by CWE-327, specifically addressing the use of weak encryption algorithms or improper implementation of encryption mechanisms. The vulnerability demonstrates a failure in proper credential protection practices where passwords are not adequately secured during storage or export operations, creating a pathway for unauthorized access to network resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential exposure, as it can enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to the SBC system and potentially compromise the entire communication infrastructure it manages. Network administrators who rely on the SBC for session border control and media processing face significant risk when this vulnerability exists, as compromised credentials could allow attackers to modify routing rules, intercept communications, or establish unauthorized connections. The attack vector is particularly concerning given that configuration exports are typically used for legitimate backup and migration purposes, making the vulnerability exploitable through routine administrative processes.
From an adversarial perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1552.001 for credentials in files, where attackers can leverage legitimate system administration activities to extract sensitive information. The weakness creates opportunities for lateral movement within networks and can serve as a stepping stone for more extensive attacks on connected systems. Organizations should consider this vulnerability in the context of their overall security posture, particularly in environments where SBC devices are deployed to manage voice and video communication traffic, as the compromised credentials could provide access to critical communication infrastructure.
The recommended mitigations include immediate upgrade to the patched version 7.40A.501.841 or later, which implements proper encryption mechanisms for password storage. Network administrators should also conduct thorough audits of existing configuration files to identify any exposed credentials and implement additional access controls around configuration export operations. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper cryptographic implementation and the need for regular security assessments of network infrastructure devices to prevent similar weaknesses in authentication mechanisms.