CVE-2019-20031 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

The NEC UM8000, UM4730, and earlier non-InMail voicemail systems have a vulnerability that allows unlimited login attempts through the telephone user interface, potentially leading to brute force attacks.

Understanding CVE-2019-20031

This CVE identifies a security flaw in NEC voicemail systems that could be exploited by attackers to perform brute force attacks.

What is CVE-2019-20031?

The vulnerability in NEC UM8000, UM4730, and prior non-InMail voicemail systems allows attackers to make an infinite number of login attempts via the telephone user interface, creating a risk of brute force attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2019-20031

The vulnerability exposes these voicemail systems to the risk of unauthorized access through repeated login attempts, potentially compromising sensitive information and system integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-20031

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in NEC voicemail systems permits an unlimited number of login attempts through the telephone user interface, enabling attackers to launch brute force attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Systems: NEC UM8000, UM4730, and earlier non-InMail voicemail systems
All known software versions of the mentioned systems

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the vulnerability by repeatedly attempting to log in through the telephone user interface, trying various combinations until successful access is gained.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-20031 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Monitor login attempts and implement account lockout mechanisms after a certain number of failed attempts
Regularly review and update access controls for voicemail systems

Long-Term Security Practices

Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities
Educate users on creating strong passwords and implementing multi-factor authentication

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches and updates provided by NEC for the affected voicemail systems to mitigate the vulnerability