How to remediate – 3Com Superstack 3 Switch Multiple Default Accounts

1. Introduction

The 3Com Superstack 3 Switch Multiple Default Accounts vulnerability involves switches shipped with default passwords set. This allows attackers to gain unauthorized remote access, potentially leading to network reconfiguration and sensitive information disclosure. Systems affected are typically 3Com Superstack 3 series switches. A successful exploit could compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your network.

2. Technical Explanation

The vulnerability stems from the use of default credentials on 3Com Superstack 3 switches. An attacker can leverage these known passwords to log in remotely and gain control of the switch. This access allows for reconfiguration, potentially leading to a man-in-the-middle position or data theft. The CVE associated with this issue is CVE-1999-0508.

• Root cause: Default accounts are shipped with well-known passwords.
• Exploit mechanism: An attacker attempts to log in using default credentials via Telnet or SSH.
• Scope: 3Com Superstack 3 series switches.

3. Detection and Assessment

You can confirm if a switch is vulnerable by checking its current password configuration. A quick check involves attempting login with known default credentials. For thorough assessment, review the switch’s configuration files.

• Quick checks: Attempt to log in using common default usernames and passwords (e.g., username ‘admin’, password ‘password’).
• Scanning: Nessus plugin ID 10875 may identify this vulnerability as an example.
• Logs and evidence: Check switch logs for login attempts with default credentials, if logging is enabled.

show running-config | include password

4. Solution / Remediation Steps

To fix the issue, set strong passwords for all accounts on the switch.

4.1 Preparation

• Ensure you have console or out-of-band management access in case of issues. Roll back by restoring the backed-up configuration if needed.

4.2 Implementation

1. Step 1: Connect to the switch via console or Telnet/SSH.
2. Step 2: Enter enable mode (if required).
3. Step 3: Change the password for each default account using the ‘password’ command. For example, `password `.
4. Step 4: Save the configuration using the ‘write memory’ or equivalent command.

4.3 Config or Code Example

Before

username admin password password

After

username admin password 

4.4 Security Practices Relevant to This Vulnerability

List only practices that directly address this vulnerability type. Use neutral wording and examples instead of fixed advice. For example: least privilege, input validation, safe defaults, secure headers, patch cadence. If a practice does not apply, do not include it.

• Practice 1: Enforce strong password policies to prevent weak credentials.
• Practice 2: Regularly review and update default configurations on network devices.

4.5 Automation (Optional)

Automation is difficult without specific switch management tools. Consider using configuration management software for large deployments.

# Example only - requires specific switch API access
# script to change password via SSH
# ssh  "configure terminal"
# ssh  "username admin password "
# ssh  "write memory"

5. Verification / Validation

Confirm the fix by attempting to log in with the old default credentials, which should now fail. Then verify access using the new passwords.

• Post-fix check: Attempt login with the original default username and password – it should be rejected.
• Re-test: Re-run the quick check from Section 3; default logins should no longer succeed.
• Monitoring: Monitor switch logs for failed login attempts with default credentials as an early warning sign of brute force attacks.

Attempt to log in using default username and password - access should be denied.

6. Preventive Measures and Monitoring

For example, update security baselines to include strong password requirements for network devices. Implement a regular configuration review process.

• Baselines: Update your network device hardening baseline to require strong passwords and disable default accounts where possible.
• Asset and patch process: Review switch configurations regularly as part of a vulnerability management program.

7. Risks, Side Effects, and Roll Back

Changing passwords may temporarily disrupt access if the new password is forgotten or incorrect. Ensure console access is available for recovery. A roll back involves restoring the backed-up configuration.

• Risk or side effect 1: Loss of access if new password is lost – ensure documentation and secure storage of credentials.

8. References and Resources

• Vendor advisory or bulletin: No specific vendor advisory found for this general issue.
• NVD or CVE entry: CVE-1999-0508
• Product or platform documentation relevant to the fix: Refer to 3Com Superstack 3 switch configuration guides for password management instructions.