Executive Summary

This vulnerability in the Tenda AC9 router firmware version 15.03.05.19 involves hard-coded administrative credentials stored in the file /etc_ro/shadow. The root user account uses a fixed password hashed with a weak algorithm (MD5-crypt), which can be cracked with password recovery tools. Exploiting this flaw allows an attacker with local access to gain unauthorized root access to the router's administrative interface, compromising the device's security. [1, 2]

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Impact Analysis

If exploited, this vulnerability allows an attacker with local access to gain unauthorized root-level control over the Tenda AC9 router. This can lead to compromise of the device's security, potentially allowing the attacker to manipulate network settings, intercept traffic, or disrupt network operations. However, remote exploitation is not feasible, and the attack complexity is high. [1, 2]

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Detection Guidance

This vulnerability can be detected by checking the presence of the hard-coded root password stored in the file /etc_ro/shadow on the Tenda AC9 router running firmware version 15.03.05.19. Since the password is hashed using MD5-crypt, tools like John the Ripper can be used to attempt to crack the password hash. Commands to extract and test the hash might include accessing the device locally, retrieving the /etc_ro/shadow file, and running John the Ripper against the hash. Specific commands are not provided in the resources, but the general approach involves local access to the device, extracting the shadow file, and using password recovery tools. [1, 2]

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Mitigation Strategies

Immediate mitigation steps include replacing the affected Tenda AC9 router with an alternative device, as no known countermeasures or mitigations have been identified. Since the vulnerability involves hard-coded credentials that cannot be changed, avoiding use of the vulnerable product is recommended to prevent exploitation. [2]

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