Overview
CVE-2019-25227 describes a critical vulnerability affecting Tellion HN-2204AP routers. This security flaw allows an unauthenticated attacker to remotely retrieve a compressed configuration archive from the device. The exposed configuration files may contain sensitive information, including administrative credentials, wireless keys (passwords), and other crucial network settings. This unauthorized access significantly increases the risk of device and network compromise.
Technical Details
The vulnerability resides in the /cgi-bin/system_config_file management endpoint of the Tellion HN-2204AP router’s web interface. The core issue is the lack of proper authentication or authorization checks before allowing access to this endpoint. By simply sending a request to this URL, an attacker can download a compressed archive of the router’s configuration files. The archive is provided without any need for a username, password, or any other form of verification.
CVSS Analysis
Unfortunately, the provided data does not include a CVSS score for CVE-2019-25227. However, given the nature of the vulnerability (unauthenticated remote configuration disclosure containing sensitive information) the severity is very likely to be rated as High or Critical. A CVSS score would need to be calculated considering factors such as attack vector (network), attack complexity (low), privileges required (none), user interaction (none), scope (changed), confidentiality impact (high), integrity impact (high), and availability impact (high). We recommend checking the NVD (National Vulnerability Database) for updated CVSS information if available. The lack of requirement for authentication and the potential for widespread access via the internet suggest a significantly dangerous vulnerability.
Possible Impact
The exploitation of CVE-2019-25227 can have severe consequences:
- Complete Router Compromise: Administrative credentials obtained from the configuration file allow the attacker to gain full control of the router.
- Network Intrusion: Wireless keys allow unauthorized access to the network.
- Data Theft: Depending on the network configuration, an attacker may be able to intercept and steal sensitive data transmitted over the network.
- Malware Deployment: A compromised router can be used to deploy malware to connected devices.
- Denial of Service (DoS): The attacker may be able to disrupt network services.
- Lateral Movement: An attacker can use the compromised router as a jumping-off point to access other devices on the network, even those behind the router, potentially escalating the attack.
Mitigation and Patch Steps
Unfortunately, Tellion is no longer an active company, and the official website is offline. Therefore, an official patch from Tellion is unavailable. However, the following mitigation steps are recommended:
- Discontinue Use: The most secure option is to discontinue the use of the Tellion HN-2204AP router and replace it with a more secure device from a vendor who provides regular security updates.
- Network Segmentation: If discontinuing use is not immediately possible, isolate the Tellion HN-2204AP router on a separate network segment with limited access to other sensitive resources.
- Monitor Network Traffic: Implement network monitoring solutions to detect any suspicious activity originating from or directed towards the Tellion HN-2204AP router.
- Firewall Restrictions: Configure firewall rules to restrict access to the router’s management interface (specifically the
/cgi-bin/system_config_fileendpoint) from external networks. Ideally, only allow access from a highly restricted internal network dedicated to network management.
Important Note: Since Tellion is defunct, the recommended mitigation is to replace the device. Continuing to use the device exposes you to significant risk.
References
Packet Storm Advisory
Tellion (Archived Website)
VulnCheck Advisory
