1. Introduction
Xerox WorkCentre devices are affected by multiple vulnerabilities, including authentication bypass and denial of service issues. These flaws could allow attackers to gain unauthorised network access or disrupt services. Systems commonly affected are Xerox WorkCentre printers and multifunction devices connected to a network. This vulnerability has the potential to compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data processed by the device.
2. Technical Explanation
The vulnerabilities stem from several issues within the Xerox WorkCentre software. Attackers can exploit these flaws remotely. The reported problems include authentication bypass allowing unauthorised access, denial of service through malformed Postscript files, and a cross-site scripting issue. Unspecified errors may also reduce security feature effectiveness. CVE-2006-0825 details an authentication bypass vulnerability, while CVE-2006-0826 relates to the denial of service condition.
- Root cause: Multiple software faults within the Xerox WorkCentre firmware including insufficient input validation and flawed access controls.
- Exploit mechanism: An attacker could send a specially crafted Postscript file to trigger a denial of service, or exploit authentication weaknesses for network access. For example, an unauthenticated user might be able to access administrative functions.
- Scope: Affected devices are Xerox WorkCentre printers and multifunction devices with the reported software version.
3. Detection and Assessment
Confirming vulnerability requires checking device model and firmware version. A thorough assessment involves reviewing logs for suspicious activity.
- Quick checks: Use the device’s control panel to display its model number and current firmware version.
- Scanning: Nessus plugin ID 30982 may detect some of these vulnerabilities, but results should be verified manually.
- Logs and evidence: Check system logs for failed authentication attempts or errors related to Postscript processing. Specific log paths vary by device model.
4. Solution / Remediation Steps
The primary solution is to contact Xerox for a fix addressing Security Bulletin Number XRX06-001.
4.1 Preparation
- A change window should be scheduled with appropriate approval from IT management.
4.2 Implementation
- Step 1: Contact Xerox support and request the update for Security Bulletin XRX06-001.
- Step 2: Download the firmware update package provided by Xerox.
- Step 3: Follow Xerox’s instructions to install the update on the WorkCentre device. This typically involves using a web interface or USB drive.
- Step 4: Verify the installation was successful and that the device is functioning correctly.
4.3 Config or Code Example
Before
After
4.4 Security Practices Relevant to This Vulnerability
Several security practices can help mitigate risks associated with this type of vulnerability.
- Practice 1: Least privilege – restrict access to device administrative functions to only authorised personnel.
- Practice 2: Patch cadence – regularly update firmware and software on all network devices.
4.5 Automation (Optional)
Automation is unlikely for this specific vulnerability due to the nature of the fix being a manual firmware upgrade.
5. Verification / Validation
Confirming the fix involves verifying the updated firmware version and testing key functionality.
- Post-fix check: Use the device’s control panel to confirm the firmware version has been updated to a version containing fixes for XRX06-001.
- Re-test: Repeat the quick checks from section 3 to ensure authentication bypass is no longer possible.
- Smoke test: Print a document and scan an image to verify basic functionality remains operational.
- Monitoring: Monitor system logs for any errors related to Postscript processing or authentication failures.
6. Preventive Measures and Monitoring
Preventive measures include updating security baselines and incorporating checks into deployment pipelines.
- Baselines: Update your network device baseline to require the latest firmware versions for Xerox WorkCentre devices.
- Pipelines: Consider adding a check in your CI/CD pipeline to verify that all deployed Xerox WorkCentre devices are running supported firmware versions.
- Asset and patch process: Implement a regular schedule for reviewing and applying security updates to all network devices, including Xerox WorkCentre printers.
7. Risks, Side Effects, and Roll Back
Firmware updates can sometimes cause unexpected issues.
- Risk or side effect 1: Firmware update may temporarily disrupt printing services. Mitigate by scheduling during off-peak hours.
8. References and Resources
Links to official advisories and documentation.
- Vendor advisory or bulletin: https://www.xerox.com/downloads/usa/en/c/cert_XRX06_001.pdf
- NVD or CVE entry: CVE-2006-0825, CVE-2006-0826
- Product or platform documentation relevant to the fix: No specific link available. Refer to Xerox support website for device model-specific instructions.