CVE-2013-2573 in TL-SC 3130G
Summary
by MITRE
A Command Injection vulnerability exists in the ap parameter to the /cgi-bin/mft/wireless_mft.cgi file in TP-Link IP Cameras TL-SC 3130, TL-SC 3130G, 3171G. and 4171G 1.6.18P12s, which could let a malicious user execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/04/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-2573 represents a critical command injection flaw in TP-Link IP camera firmware versions 1.6.18P12s affecting models TL-SC 3130, TL-SC 3130G, 3171G, and 4171G. This vulnerability resides within the wireless_mft.cgi CGI script where the ap parameter is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization. The flaw allows an attacker to inject arbitrary commands that are subsequently executed by the underlying operating system, potentially providing complete system compromise. The vulnerability is classified as a command injection weakness under CWE-77, which is a well-documented category of vulnerabilities that enables attackers to execute operating system commands through untrusted input. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically targeting the execution of system commands through the application's interface.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the ap parameter in the wireless_mft.cgi script fails to properly validate or sanitize user input before incorporating it into system commands. Attackers can exploit this by crafting malicious payloads that, when submitted through the affected parameter, get executed with the privileges of the web server process. This typically means the commands run with elevated privileges, potentially allowing access to sensitive system resources, modification of configuration files, or even complete system takeover. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects network cameras that are often deployed in security-sensitive environments where unauthorized access could lead to complete compromise of the surveillance infrastructure. The affected devices are commonly used in both residential and commercial settings, making this a widespread concern for organizations relying on TP-Link IP camera systems for security monitoring.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential data breaches. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain persistent access to the camera's file system, potentially allowing them to install backdoors, modify network configurations, or exfiltrate stored video footage and credentials. The attack surface is particularly concerning because IP cameras often operate in network environments where they may have access to sensitive areas or internal network resources. Organizations using these devices may face significant security implications including unauthorized surveillance, potential lateral movement within networks, and exposure of sensitive information. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical expertise and can be accomplished through simple web-based attacks, making it particularly dangerous in environments where physical security controls are inadequate.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-2573 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from TP-Link to address the command injection vulnerability. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to isolate affected devices from critical network segments and deploy intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious network traffic patterns. Additional defensive measures include disabling unnecessary services, implementing strong access controls, and conducting regular security assessments of networked devices. Network administrators should consider implementing web application firewalls to filter malicious requests targeting CGI scripts and ensure that all devices are configured with strong authentication credentials. The vulnerability's classification as a command injection flaw underscores the importance of input validation and proper sanitization of user-supplied data in all web applications, aligning with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-160 and ISO 27001 standards for secure application development and network security management.