CVE-2013-3541 in AirLive WL2600CAM
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in cgi-bin/admin/fileread in AirLive WL2600CAM and possibly other camera models allows remote attackers to read arbitrary files via a .. (dot dot) in the READ.filePath parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/18/2024
The CVE-2013-3541 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting AirLive WL2600CAM devices and potentially other network camera models that utilize similar web interface implementations. This vulnerability resides within the cgi-bin/admin/fileread component of the device's web server, specifically in how it processes the READ.filePath parameter. The flaw enables remote attackers to access arbitrary files on the device's file system by manipulating the filePath parameter with directory traversal sequences such as .. which allows navigation outside of intended directories. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the file reading functionality, creating an exploitable path traversal condition that bypasses normal access controls and file system boundaries.
This directory traversal vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal. The flaw operates at the application layer and represents a fundamental security misconfiguration that allows attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms and access sensitive system files. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it enables remote code execution capabilities through access to system configuration files, log files, and potentially credential storage locations. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to obtain administrative credentials, system logs, configuration files, and other sensitive data that could be used for further exploitation or lateral movement within network environments.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-3541 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with the ability to escalate privileges and potentially gain full control over affected devices. Network cameras typically store sensitive information including user credentials, system configurations, and operational logs that can be accessed through this vulnerability. The attack surface is particularly broad since these devices are often deployed in unsecured environments and may be directly accessible from external networks without proper network segmentation. The vulnerability can be exploited from any remote location with network access to the affected device, making it particularly dangerous for devices deployed in public or semi-public locations where network exposure is unavoidable.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-3541 should focus on implementing proper input validation and sanitization techniques to prevent directory traversal attacks. Network administrators should immediately apply vendor patches if available, as AirLive likely released firmware updates to address this vulnerability. Network segmentation through firewalls and access control lists should be implemented to restrict direct access to camera web interfaces from untrusted networks. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by ensuring that web server processes run with minimal required permissions and that file access controls are properly configured. Regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other networked devices, particularly those with web-based management interfaces. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of implementing web application firewalls and input validation mechanisms at network boundaries to prevent exploitation of similar path traversal vulnerabilities in other applications and services.