The firmware of all Wattsense Bridge devices contain the same hard-coded user and root credentials. The user password can be easily recovered via password cracking attempts. The recovered credentials can be used to log into the device via the login shell that is exposed by the serial interface. The backdoor user has been removed in firmware BSP >= 6.4.1.
This vulnerability allows for critical impacts, with a CVSS score of 9.8 indicating a high severity level. Attackers may leverage these hard-coded credentials to gain unauthorized access, posing significant risks to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected devices.
Risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized control over the devices, which could lead to disruptions in service or data breaches. Given the low attack complexity and no required user interaction, organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
As of now, the vulnerability status is deferred, indicating that while it is recognized, it may not have an immediate fix available. Organizations should remain vigilant and monitor for any updates regarding remediation efforts.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability classified under CWE-798 involves hard-coded credentials, which are easily exploitable. The CVSS vector indicates that the attack vector is network-based, with low complexity and no required privileges or user interaction.
This vulnerability affects all firmware versions prior to BSP 6.4.1. Organizations using these devices should urgently assess their firmware versions to determine exposure.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability stems from the use of hard-coded credentials within the firmware. This design flaw allows attackers to easily recover user passwords through password cracking techniques. With the login shell exposed via the serial interface, attackers can gain access without any barriers.
The attack vector is network-based, meaning that an attacker does not need physical access to the devices to exploit this vulnerability. The attack complexity is classified as low, as the credentials can be extracted through straightforward methods without requiring special privileges.
No user interaction is required to exploit this vulnerability, which further increases the risk. The potential impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability are all classified as high, emphasizing the critical nature of this flaw.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Real-world deployment risks are significant for organizations using Wattsense Bridge devices. The hard-coded credentials not only allow unauthorized access but also open pathways for further attacks on connected systems. Organizations should assess the potential blast radius, as the compromised devices could lead to broader network vulnerabilities.
With a CVSS score of 9.8, this vulnerability represents an immediate threat. Organizations must prioritize remediation efforts and monitor for any signs of exploitation. The deferred status indicates that while a patch may not be available yet, proactive measures are necessary.
Given the current context, organizations should prepare for potential vulnerabilities that may arise from similar design flaws in other devices.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions prior to firmware BSP 6.4.1 are affected by this vulnerability. Users of Wattsense Bridge devices should ensure they are updated to this version or later to mitigate risks.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize updating their Wattsense Bridge firmware to version BSP 6.4.1 or later. If a patch is not immediately available, consider implementing network controls to limit access to affected devices.
It is also advisable to conduct a thorough security assessment and consider engaging in penetration testing to identify potential weaknesses.
Detection Guidance
Monitor logs for unauthorized access attempts and any unusual login activity on Wattsense Bridge devices. Look for behavioral anomalies that could indicate exploitation of this vulnerability.
Regularly review configuration settings and ensure that only authorized personnel have access to management interfaces.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The discovery of hard-coded credentials in Wattsense Bridge devices illustrates ongoing security design flaws in connected devices. This vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices.
Organizations are encouraged to adopt comprehensive security testing methodologies to prevent similar issues. Insights from this case can inform future development strategies to enhance security.
For further insights, organizations should explore our resources on penetration testing methodology and effective security practices.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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