How to remediate – Xerox WorkCentre Device Detection

1. Introduction

The Xerox WorkCentre Device Detection vulnerability identifies systems running as a printer, specifically a Xerox WorkCentre device. This is important because printers are often overlooked in security assessments and can present an attack surface. A successful exploit could allow for remote code execution or data theft. The likely impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is medium.

2. Technical Explanation

This vulnerability indicates the presence of a Xerox WorkCentre device on the network. While not directly exploitable as stated, it signifies a potential entry point for attackers targeting known vulnerabilities in these devices. Attackers may attempt to exploit default credentials or unpatched firmware. The IAVT identifier is 0001-T-0749.

• Root cause: The device identifies itself as a Xerox WorkCentre, indicating its presence on the network.
• Exploit mechanism: An attacker could scan for these devices and then attempt to exploit known vulnerabilities specific to the model and firmware version. For example, they might try default login credentials or use publicly available exploits.
• Scope: Affected platforms are networks containing Xerox WorkCentre printers. Specific models and firmware versions depend on the device configuration.

3. Detection and Assessment

Confirming a system is vulnerable involves identifying Xerox WorkCentre devices on your network. A quick check can be done using basic networking tools, while thorough assessment requires dedicated scanning.

• Quick checks: Use the nmap command to scan for open ports commonly associated with printers (ports 9100, 631, etc.). Look for banners identifying Xerox WorkCentre devices.
• Scanning: Nessus or OpenVAS may have signatures related to Xerox printer detection. These are examples only and require validation.
• Logs and evidence: Network traffic analysis can reveal communication patterns associated with printers. Check firewall logs for connections to known Xerox IP addresses.

nmap -p 9100,631 

4. Solution / Remediation Steps

The solution focuses on securing and monitoring these devices rather than a traditional patch. Ensure the device is isolated from sensitive networks.

4.1 Preparation

• Backups are not directly applicable, but document current network configuration. Stop no services unless required for isolation.
• Dependencies: Access to network infrastructure and printer management tools. Roll back involves restoring original network settings if changes cause disruption.
• Change window needs may apply depending on the size of your network. Approval from IT security is recommended.

4.2 Implementation

1. Step 1: Isolate the Xerox WorkCentre device onto a separate network segment with restricted access to critical resources.
2. Step 2: Change default credentials on the printer’s web interface. Use strong, unique passwords.
3. Step 3: Update the printer’s firmware to the latest available version from the official Xerox website.

4.3 Config or Code Example

Before

Default username: admin
Default password: 1234

After

Username: 
Password: 

4.4 Security Practices Relevant to This Vulnerability

Several security practices directly address this vulnerability type.

• Practice 1: Least privilege – restrict network access for printers to only necessary resources.

4.5 Automation (Optional)

Automation is not directly applicable without specific printer management tools.

5. Verification / Validation

Confirming the fix involves verifying updated credentials and network isolation.

• Post-fix check: Attempt to access the printer’s web interface using the default credentials; it should fail.
• Re-test: Re-run the nmap scan from section 3 to confirm the device is still detected but inaccessible from sensitive networks.
• Smoke test: Verify basic printing functionality from a non-critical network segment.
• Monitoring: Check firewall logs for any unauthorized access attempts to the printer’s IP address.

nmap -p 9100,631 

6. Preventive Measures and Monitoring

Preventive measures focus on asset management and regular security reviews.

• Baselines: Update a network device baseline to include secure configuration requirements for printers.
• Pipelines: Implement vulnerability scanning as part of the printer deployment process.
• Asset and patch process: Establish a schedule for reviewing and updating firmware on all network devices, including printers.

7. Risks, Side Effects, and Roll Back

Risks include potential printing disruption if configuration changes are incorrect.

• Risk or side effect 2: Firmware updates can sometimes cause compatibility issues; test in a non-production environment first.
• Roll back: Restore the printer to its previous network configuration and credentials if issues arise.

8. References and Resources

Links only to sources that match this exact vulnerability.

• Vendor advisory or bulletin: Check the official Xerox support website for security advisories related to WorkCentre devices.
• NVD or CVE entry: No specific CVE is associated with device detection, but search NVD for vulnerabilities affecting Xerox printers.
• Product or platform documentation relevant to the fix: Refer to the Xerox WorkCentre user manual for instructions on changing credentials and updating firmware.