Listen to this Post
The vulnerability exists because the device’s web interface uses HTTP Basic Authentication over unencrypted HTTP connections. When an administrator logs in, their username and password are placed in an HTTP `Authorization` header. The credentials are encoded using Base64 but are not encrypted. For example, a captured header might contain “Authorization: Basic YWRtaW46YWRtaW4=”, which easily decodes to the plaintext credentials “admin:admin”. Any attacker with the ability to monitor network traffic between the client and the vulnerable gateway can intercept these HTTP requests. This interception can be performed through passive sniffing on the same LAN or Wi-Fi network, by using a rogue access point, or via man-in-the-middle attacks like ARP poisoning. Once the Base64 string is captured, the attacker can decode it to obtain the valid administrator credentials, granting full control of the serial-to-Ethernet/Wi-Fi gateway without any need for authentication.
Platform: Waveshare Serial Gateway
Version: Firmware V3.1.1.0
Vulnerability: Cleartext Credential Transmission
Severity: HIGH (CVSS 7.5)
date: Published 2025-12-04
Prediction: No patch available
What Undercode Say:
Analytics
A proof-of-concept exploit document is publicly available. The following Bash command simulates credential interception from unencrypted HTTP traffic:
`sudo tcpdump -i eth0 -A port 80 | grep -i ‘authorization:’`
How Exploit:
Attackers intercept unencrypted HTTP login traffic. They capture the `Authorization` header containing Base64-encoded credentials. The Base64 string is decoded to plaintext username and password. The attacker uses stolen credentials for full administrative access. Exploitation methods include passive network sniffing, rogue access points, ARP poisoning, and compromised workstations.
Protection from this CVE
Isolate device on secure VLAN. Implement VPN for management. Monitor network for plaintext credentials. Restrict administrative access via IP whitelisting. Rotate administrator passwords frequently. Engage vendor for firmware update.
Impact:
Complete compromise of gateway device. Unauthorized administrative control gained. Potential network pivot point. Exposure of industrial control communications. Could disrupt operational technology environments.
🎯Let’s Practice Exploiting & Learn Patching For Free:
Sources:
Reported By: nvd.nist.gov
Extra Source Hub:
Undercode
