What is a potential risk of not changing default credentials on network devices?

Not changing default credentials on network devices significantly exposes an organization to the risk of unauthorized access and potential breaches. Default credentials are often widely known or easily obtainable through various sources, including product documentation or online databases. When these default usernames and passwords are left unchanged, it allows malicious actors to exploit this vulnerability easily, gaining unauthorized access to the network devices.

Once they have access, attackers can manipulate equipment settings, intercept data, or initiate attacks on internal systems, which can lead to severe security incidents, data loss, or breaches of sensitive information. Therefore, changing default credentials is a critical step in securing network devices and protecting the integrity and confidentiality of the overall network.