CVE-2020-5349 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2020-5349, a critical vulnerability in Dell EMC Networking S4100 and S5200 Series Switches allowing remote attackers to gain administrative privileges. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures.
Dell EMC Networking S4100 and S5200 Series Switches manufactured prior to February 2020 contain a hardcoded credential vulnerability that could allow a remote unauthenticated attacker to gain administrative privileges.
Understanding CVE-2020-5349
This CVE involves a critical vulnerability in Dell networking switches that could lead to unauthorized access and control of affected devices.
What is CVE-2020-5349?
CVE-2020-5349 is a hardcoded credential vulnerability found in Dell EMC Networking S4100 and S5200 Series Switches, allowing malicious users to exploit the flaw remotely.
The Impact of CVE-2020-5349
The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 9.8, indicating a critical severity level with high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2020-5349
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in Dell switches allows remote unauthenticated attackers to gain administrative privileges due to hardcoded credentials present in the devices.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Networking
- Vendor: Dell
- Versions Affected: S4100 and S5200
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attack Complexity: Low
- Attack Vector: Network
- Privileges Required: None
- User Interaction: None
- Scope: Unchanged
- Vector String: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from this vulnerability requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update affected Dell switches to the latest firmware version that addresses the hardcoded credential issue.
- Implement strong network access controls to limit unauthorized access.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly monitor and audit network devices for any unauthorized changes or access.
- Train employees on secure credential management and best practices for network security.
Patching and Updates
- Stay informed about security updates and patches released by Dell for networking devices.