CVE-2017-5163 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability has been identified in the Belden Hirschmann GECKO Lite Managed switch, with Version 2.0.00 and earlier versions. When an administrator downloads a configuration file, a duplicate of the file containing hashed user passwords is stored in a location that can be accessed without proper authentication through path traversal.

Understanding CVE-2017-5163

This CVE entry describes a path traversal vulnerability in the Belden Hirschmann GECKO Lite Managed switch.

What is CVE-2017-5163?

CVE-2017-5163 is a security flaw in the Belden Hirschmann GECKO Lite Managed switch that allows unauthorized access to hashed user passwords through path traversal when downloading configuration files.

The Impact of CVE-2017-5163

The vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, including user passwords, compromising the security of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-5163

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE-2017-5163 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises in Version 2.0.00 and prior versions of the Belden Hirschmann GECKO Lite Managed switch when a configuration file containing hashed user passwords is saved in an accessible location without proper authentication.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Belden Hirschmann GECKO 2.0.00 and prior
Vendor: n/a

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker through path traversal when downloading configuration files, allowing unauthorized access to hashed user passwords.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-5163 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to the latest firmware or software version that addresses the vulnerability.
Restrict access to configuration files to authorized personnel only.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit access to sensitive files on the network.
Implement strong authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Apply patches provided by the vendor to fix the path traversal vulnerability.