CVE-2002-1691

Alcatel OmniPCX 4400 installs known user accounts and passwords in the /etc/password file by default, which allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access

published June 21, 2005

CVSS
—
EPSS
4%
Percentile
89.4
In the wild
Unconfirmed
What it is

🚨 Default passwords are still in play! The Alcatel OmniPCX 4400 ships with known usernames and passwords right in the /etc/password file, making it a prime target for mischief. 🔥 This is like leaving your front door wide open with a sign that says 'Welcome, thieves!' It’s an invitation for anyone to waltz right in without a care in the world, exploiting an obvious oversight. An attacker could log in and gain unauthorized access with a simple knowledge of these default credentials, potentially compromising the entire system. This means sensitive information could be exposed, and malicious actions could be taken, all because of a predictable flaw.

Put simply

This is like leaving your front door wide open with a sign that says 'Welcome, thieves!' It’s an invitation for anyone to waltz right in without a care in the world, exploiting an obvious oversight. CVE-2002-1691 arises because the Alcatel OmniPCX 4400 installs default user accounts and passwords directly into the /etc/password file, allowing remote attackers to authenticate without any additional barriers.

What to do

An attacker could log in and gain unauthorized access with a simple knowledge of these default credentials, potentially compromising the entire system. This means sensitive information could be exposed, and malicious actions could be taken, all because of a predictable flaw. To mitigate this vulnerability, immediately change all default usernames and passwords to unique, strong credentials. Additionally, review your access controls and ensure that only authorized users have the necessary permissions. You’ve got this! Take these steps to secure your system and reclaim your fortress! 🛡️

The record
Technical detail
CVSS
Not scored
CVSS v4.0
Not supplied
EPSS
0.03613 · 89.4th percentile
Published
2005-06-21T04:00Z
EPSS history
Timeline
  • 21 JUN 04:00Z
    Alcatel OmniPCX 4400 installs known user accounts and passwords in the /etc/password file by default, which allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access
    cvelistv5