T1602.002 Network Device Configuration Dump
Sub-technique of: T1602
High-Level Description
Adversaries may access network configuration files to collect sensitive data about the device and the network. The network configuration is a file containing parameters that determine the operation of the device. The device typically stores an in-memory copy of the configuration while operating, and a separate configuration on non-volatile storage to load after device reset. Adversaries can inspect the configuration files to reveal information about the target network and its layout, the network device and its software, or identifying legitimate accounts and credentials for later use.
Adversaries can use common management tools and protocols, such as Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) and Smart Install (SMI), to access network configuration files. These tools may be used to query specific data from a configuration repository or configure the device to export the configuration for later analysis.
Kill Chain Phase
Platforms: Network Devices
What to Check
How to Test
Manual Testing
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Identify Attack Surface: Determine if the target environment is susceptible to Network Device Configuration Dump by examining the target platforms (Network Devices).
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Assess Existing Defenses: Review whether mitigations for T1602.002 are in place. If defenses are absent or misconfigured, this technique may be exploitable.
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Execute Test: Use tools and methods described in the MITRE ATT&CK page and external references below.
Note: No Atomic Red Team tests available for this technique. See Atomic Red Team GitHub for updates.
Remediation Guide
M1041 Encrypt Sensitive Information
Configure SNMPv3 to use the highest level of security (authPriv) available.
M1030 Network Segmentation
Segregate SNMP traffic on a separate management network.
M1031 Network Intrusion Prevention
Configure intrusion prevention devices to detect SNMP queries and commands from unauthorized sources. Create signatures to detect Smart Install (SMI) usage from sources other than trusted director.
M1054 Software Configuration
Allowlist MIB objects and implement SNMP views. Disable Smart Install (SMI) if not used.
M1037 Filter Network Traffic
Apply extended ACLs to block unauthorized protocols outside the trusted network.
M1051 Update Software
Keep system images and software updated and migrate to SNMPv3.
Detection
Detection Strategy for Network Device Configuration Dump via Config Repositories
Risk Assessment
| Finding | Severity | Impact |
|---|
| Network Device Configuration Dump technique applicable | High | Collection |
CWE Categories
| CWE ID | Title |
|---|
| CWE-200 | Exposure of Sensitive Information |
References
