Source: cve@mitre.org
The HTTP service in American Power Conversion (APC) PowerChute uses a default username and password, which allows remote attackers to gain system access.
Critical vulnerability in American Power Conversion (APC) PowerChute allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to the system due to the use of a default username and password in the HTTP service. This can lead to complete system compromise, including data theft, system outages, and potential lateral movement within the network.
Step 1: Reconnaissance: The attacker identifies the target system running APC PowerChute, likely through port scanning (e.g., port 80 or 443) and banner grabbing.
Step 2: Credential Attempt: The attacker attempts to log in to the PowerChute HTTP service using the default username and password (which are likely publicly available).
Step 3: Authentication Bypass: If the default credentials are still in place, the attacker successfully authenticates and gains access to the PowerChute web interface.
Step 4: Privilege Escalation: The attacker, now logged in as an administrator, can potentially access sensitive system information, modify configurations, and potentially control the UPS device.
Step 5: System Compromise: Depending on the PowerChute version and configuration, the attacker could potentially shut down the UPS, disrupt power to critical systems, or use the compromised system as a pivot point for further attacks.
The vulnerability stems from a design flaw where the PowerChute HTTP service is configured with a default, easily guessable, or publicly known username and password combination. This lack of proper authentication allows any remote attacker to bypass security controls and gain administrative access. The root cause is the absence of secure default credentials and the failure to require or enforce strong password policies upon initial setup. The HTTP service likely lacks proper input validation or rate limiting, making it susceptible to brute-force attacks against the default credentials. There is no indication of a more complex vulnerability like a buffer overflow or SQL injection in the description, but the severity lies in the ease of exploitation.
This vulnerability is attractive to a wide range of attackers, from opportunistic script kiddies to more sophisticated threat actors. It could be leveraged by ransomware groups to disrupt operations. While no specific APTs are directly linked in the description, the ease of exploitation makes it a prime target. Not listed on CISA KEV.
Network traffic analysis: Look for HTTP requests to the PowerChute service with known default credentials or common brute-force attempts.
Log analysis: Review PowerChute server logs for successful logins using default credentials or suspicious activity after a successful login.
Vulnerability scanning: Use vulnerability scanners to identify systems running vulnerable versions of PowerChute.
File integrity monitoring: Monitor critical PowerChute configuration files for unauthorized changes.
Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions: Monitor for unusual processes or commands executed by the PowerChute service or related processes.
Change the default username and password immediately to a strong, unique password.
Update PowerChute to the latest version or apply security patches provided by APC.
Implement network segmentation to isolate the PowerChute server from critical systems.
Disable or restrict access to the PowerChute HTTP service if it is not required.
Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) if available.
Regularly review and audit PowerChute configuration and access logs.
Implement a web application firewall (WAF) to filter malicious HTTP requests.