Hard-Coded Root Password in TOTOLINK X5000R

Executive Summary

TOTOLINK X5000R V9.1.0cu.2415_B20250515 has a hardcoded password for the root account stored in the /etc/shadow file. The password hash is $1$ArDex.Yh$J4iv2K7mBpSnHewlCdkdp. and can be cracked to reveal the plaintext password 'cs2012'. This allows unauthorized administrative access to the router via telnet using root:cs2012.

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Detection Guidance

To detect this vulnerability, check if your TOTOLINK X5000R device is running firmware version V9.1.0cu.2415_B20250515. Use commands like 'cat /etc/shadow' on the device to inspect the root password hash. If the hash matches '$1$ArDex.Yh$J4iv2K7mBpSnHewlCdkdp.', the vulnerability exists. Alternatively, attempt to access the device via telnet using 'telnet <device-ip>' with credentials root:cs2012.

For firmware extraction, use 'binwalk -e <firmware-file>' to decompress the firmware and locate the /etc/shadow file for analysis.

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Impact Analysis

An attacker could gain full administrative control over the TOTOLINK X5000R router by exploiting this vulnerability. This could allow them to intercept network traffic, modify router settings, install malware, or launch further attacks within the local network.

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Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to network traffic and sensitive data, potentially violating data protection requirements under GDPR and HIPAA. Organizations using affected devices may face compliance violations, data breaches, and legal consequences.

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Mitigation Strategies

Immediately update the device firmware to the latest version if available. If no update exists, disable telnet access and restrict remote administration. Change the root password to a strong, unique value. Monitor network traffic for unauthorized access attempts.

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