CVE-2020-13859:Authentication bypass vulnerability in Mofi Network MOFI4500-4GXeLTE 4.0.8-std devices allows unauthorized access via the undocumented mofidev account.

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A critical authentication vulnerability was discovered in Mofi Network MOFI4500-4GXeLTE 4.0.8-std devices. The issue stems from a format error in the /etc/shadow file combined with a logic bug in the LuCI - OpenWrt Configuration Interface framework. This vulnerability allows an attacker to gain unauthorized access to the router's management interface by exploiting an undocumented system account called "mofidev" through a forgotten-password feature, effectively bypassing authentication controls.

Overview

The vulnerability (CVE-2020-13859) affects Mofi Network MOFI4500-4GXeLTE routers running firmware version 4.0.8-std. The issue involves an improperly configured system account combined with a logic flaw in the authentication mechanism. The undocumented "mofidev" account can be used to access the cgi-bin/luci/quick/wizard management interface without requiring a password by exploiting the router's forgotten-password functionality. This vulnerability is classified as CWE-287 (Improper Authentication) and CWE-755 (Improper Handling of Exceptional Conditions), allowing attackers to gain administrative control over the affected device.

Remediation

To address this vulnerability, users should:

  1. Update the router's firmware to the latest version available from Mofi Network's official website.
  2. Check Mofi Network's security advisory page for specific patch information.
  3. If updates are not available, consider implementing network-level protections:
    • Place the router behind another security device if possible
    • Restrict management interface access to trusted IP addresses only
    • Monitor for unauthorized access attempts
    • Change default credentials for all accounts
  4. Consider disabling remote management if not required.

References

  1. Mofi Network Security Advisory: https://mofinetwork.com/index.php?main_page=page&id=14
  2. Critical Start Technical Analysis: https://www.criticalstart.com/critical-vulnerabilities-discovered-in-mofi-routers/
  3. CWE-287: Improper Authentication - https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/287.html
  4. CWE-755: Improper Handling of Exceptional Conditions - https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/755.html

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction
    Construction
  6. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade

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