CVE-2026-32842 in GS-5008PL
Summary
by MITRE • 03/18/2026
Edimax GS-5008PL firmware version 1.00.54 and prior contain an insecure credential storage vulnerability that allows attackers to obtain administrator credentials by accessing configuration backup files. Attackers can download the config.bin file through fupload.cgi to extract plaintext username and password fields for unauthorized administrative access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/21/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-32842 affects Edimax GS-5008PL network switches running firmware versions 1.00.54 and earlier, representing a critical insecure credential storage weakness that directly compromises network security infrastructure. This flaw resides in the device's configuration management system where administrative credentials are stored in an unencrypted format within backup configuration files, creating a persistent security risk that extends beyond the typical scope of network device vulnerabilities.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the insecure handling of authentication credentials within the device's web interface management system. When administrators configure the switch through its web-based management interface, the system stores both username and password information in plaintext format within the config.bin file generated by the fupload.cgi component. This configuration backup mechanism, designed for system recovery and configuration transfer purposes, inadvertently exposes sensitive authentication data to any attacker who can access the device's web interface or network services. The vulnerability specifically leverages the fupload.cgi script which provides functionality for uploading and downloading configuration files, making it a direct attack vector for credential extraction.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple credential theft, as it provides attackers with persistent administrative access to the network switch infrastructure. Once an attacker successfully downloads the config.bin file, they gain immediate access to administrative credentials that can be used to modify switch configurations, implement unauthorized network changes, or establish persistent backdoor access points. This access can enable lateral movement within the network, allowing attackers to compromise additional devices and potentially escalate privileges to other network infrastructure components. The vulnerability affects network security posture at multiple levels, from network segmentation enforcement to access control policy implementation.
From a cybersecurity framework perspective, this vulnerability maps directly to CWE-312 (CWE-312: Cleartext Storage of Sensitive Information) and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 (Phishing for Information) and T1078 (Valid Accounts) as attackers can leverage the stolen credentials for legitimate administrative access. The vulnerability also demonstrates poor security practices in accordance with NIST SP 800-53 security controls, particularly in the area of access control where sensitive information should be protected through encryption and proper credential management protocols. Network administrators should note that this vulnerability affects the fundamental security model of the device, as it undermines the trust model that should exist between network administrators and their managed infrastructure.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate firmware updates to version 1.00.55 or later, which should address the insecure credential storage issue through proper encryption of authentication data within configuration files. Additionally, network administrators should implement network segmentation to limit access to management interfaces, disable unnecessary web services, and establish strict access controls through firewall rules that restrict access to the switch's administrative ports. Regular security audits should include verification of credential storage practices and configuration file integrity checks to prevent unauthorized modifications. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect unauthorized access attempts to configuration backup files and establish incident response procedures for credential compromise scenarios.