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A recently discovered security vulnerability in several Seiko-Epson devices should raise concern among printer owners. This vulnerability affects the internal management web server of certain Epson printer models. The danger: under specific circumstances, attackers can gain access to these devices via the web configuration interface and take full control. Heise reported on the issue.
What is behind this security vulnerability?
Epson has issued a security warning stating that several of its devices lack a default password for the internal management web server. This means that the first user accessing this management page can set a password. However, if this step is not completed promptly, the device remains vulnerable. The situation becomes particularly critical if an attacker gains access to the management webpage, as they could then obtain full administrative control over the printer. In a corporate network, this poses significant risks to overall IT security, as printers often serve as bridges into local networks.
The vulnerability is identified as CVE-2024-47295 and is listed in the NIST database. On Epson’s website, linked in the security advisory, you can find a detailed list of affected models.
Our assessment
The issue itself is simple yet dangerous. The lack of a default password for the management interface makes it easy for attackers to take control, especially in situations where the printer is hastily set up without careful attention. This is not the first time printers have become gateways for attackers due to such weaknesses, as they are fully integrated computers within the network.
The solution to this problem is straightforward: as soon as the device is operational, a strong password should be set immediately. Ideally, the device should prompt the administrator to do this, but sometimes this is overlooked or ignored in the rush. It is also crucial to ensure that printers are set up in a secured network segment. As we recommend, placing devices in a separate, protected network segment without public access prevents attackers from connecting to the management webpage. This significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access.
Conclusion
This vulnerability highlights once again how important it is to treat not only IT endpoints but also printers as potential attack points within a network. By taking simple measures, such as setting a secure password and placing printers in a protected network segment, many risks can be avoided.
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