CVE-2014-1849 in IP camera
Summary
by MITRE
Foscam IP camera 11.37.2.49 and other versions, when using the Foscam DynDNS option, generates credentials based on predictable camera subdomain names, which allows remote attackers to spoof or hijack arbitrary cameras and conduct other attacks by modifying arbitrary camera records in the Foscam DNS server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-1849 affects Foscam IP camera models running firmware version 11.37.2.49 and potentially other versions that utilize the Foscam DynDNS functionality. This security flaw stems from a predictable credential generation mechanism that compromises the integrity of the camera authentication system. The issue specifically manifests when cameras employ the DynDNS option, which dynamically assigns subdomain names to devices within the Foscam ecosystem. The predictable nature of these subdomain names creates a significant security weakness that remote attackers can exploit to gain unauthorized access to camera systems.
The technical flaw resides in the algorithm used to generate authentication credentials for Foscam cameras when they register with the DynDNS service. The system employs a deterministic approach that derives camera identifiers from the subdomain names, making it possible for attackers to reverse-engineer the credential generation process. This predictable pattern allows malicious actors to compute valid authentication tokens for cameras they do not own or control. The vulnerability specifically affects the camera registration and authentication mechanisms within the Foscam DynDNS infrastructure, where the subdomain name serves as a key component in the credential derivation process.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass a range of malicious activities that can compromise camera security and privacy. Attackers can spoof legitimate camera identities, hijack camera control functions, and potentially gain access to live video feeds from unauthorized locations. The ability to modify arbitrary camera records in the Foscam DNS server creates opportunities for attackers to redirect traffic, manipulate camera configurations, or even disable security features. This vulnerability essentially undermines the fundamental security model of the Foscam ecosystem, allowing unauthorized parties to assume control of legitimate camera devices and potentially access sensitive surveillance data.
The vulnerability maps to CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues in software systems, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploitation of remote services through credential manipulation. Organizations using Foscam IP cameras should implement immediate mitigations including disabling the DynDNS functionality when not required, implementing network segmentation to isolate camera traffic, and regularly monitoring DNS records for unauthorized modifications. Additionally, upgrading to newer firmware versions that address the predictable credential generation issue should be prioritized, as the vulnerability affects multiple firmware versions and represents a persistent threat to camera security. Network administrators should also consider implementing DNS monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized changes to camera registration records and establish baseline configurations for camera authentication mechanisms.