CVE-2013-3613 in Dvr5408
Summary
by MITRE
Dahua DVR appliances do not properly restrict UPnP requests, which makes it easier for remote attackers to obtain access via vectors involving a replay attack against the TELNET port.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2013-3613 affects Dahua digital video recorder appliances and represents a significant security flaw in the implementation of Universal Plug and Play protocols. This weakness stems from insufficient restrictions on UPnP request handling within the device firmware, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to the appliance. The vulnerability specifically targets the TELNET port as a vector for replay attacks, leveraging the improper handling of UPnP communications to bypass normal authentication mechanisms.
The technical flaw manifests in the device's failure to properly validate and restrict incoming UPnP requests, enabling attackers to manipulate the protocol to establish unauthorized connections. When Dahua DVR appliances receive UPnP requests, they do not adequately verify the source or authenticity of these communications, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system. The replay attack mechanism exploits this weakness by capturing legitimate UPnP responses and reusing them to establish unauthorized access to the TELNET service, which typically operates on port 23. This vulnerability falls under the category of insufficient input validation and improper access control as defined by CWE-284 for inadequate access control mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is substantial as it allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to Dahua DVR systems without requiring physical access or legitimate credentials. Once exploited, attackers can potentially access recorded video footage, modify system configurations, disable security features, and perform other malicious activities. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the network level and can be exploited from external networks, making it accessible to a wide range of potential attackers. The TELNET port serves as a critical attack surface since it provides command-line access to the device, which could enable full system compromise and lateral movement within network environments.
Security professionals should implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to address this vulnerability effectively. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to the TELNET port and UPnP services from untrusted networks. Device firmware updates should be applied immediately to address the vulnerability, as Dahua has released patches to fix the UPnP request handling issues. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous UPnP traffic patterns and potential replay attack attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper protocol implementation and access control enforcement, aligning with ATT&CK techniques related to privilege escalation and remote access trojan operations. Organizations should also consider disabling UPnP services entirely on network devices when they are not required for legitimate business operations, as recommended in various cybersecurity frameworks including NIST SP 800-44 and ISO 27001 standards for network security controls.