CVE-2014-6433 in HERO
Summary
by MITRE
gpExec in GoPro HERO 3+ allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary files via a the (1) a1 or (2) a2 parameter in a start action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/25/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-6433 affects the gpExec component within GoPro HERO 3+ action cameras, representing a critical remote code execution flaw that enables attackers to compromise device functionality without physical access. This vulnerability resides in the camera's web interface implementation where the gpExec function processes user input parameters during device operations. The specific attack vectors involve manipulation of the a1 and a2 parameters within the start action command, which are processed by the device's embedded web server. These parameters are intended to control various camera functions but are improperly validated, allowing malicious input to be interpreted as executable commands rather than simple configuration values. The flaw demonstrates a classic input validation vulnerability that falls under CWE-20, specifically related to improper input validation in web applications, where user-supplied data is not adequately sanitized before being processed by the system's command interpreter.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient parameter validation within the GoPro HERO 3+ firmware's web service layer. When an attacker crafts a malicious request containing specially formatted a1 or a2 parameters, the system fails to properly validate or sanitize these inputs before passing them to the underlying execution engine. This allows arbitrary file execution through the web interface, effectively bypassing normal authentication mechanisms and device security controls. The vulnerability operates at the application layer of the network stack, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical access to the device. The attack surface is expanded by the fact that many GoPro cameras operate in default configurations that expose their web interfaces to local network users, creating multiple potential entry points for exploitation. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically targeting the execution of arbitrary commands through web-based interfaces.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-6433 extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass potential device compromise and data exposure. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the camera, potentially installing malware, modifying firmware, or accessing stored media files. The remote nature of the attack means that threat actors can exploit this vulnerability from anywhere on the network, making it particularly concerning for users who leave their cameras connected to unsecured networks or public Wi-Fi networks. The compromised device may also serve as a pivot point for attacking other networked devices, as the camera's network connectivity can be used to establish further attack vectors within a local network environment. Additionally, the vulnerability could be exploited to create persistent backdoors, allowing attackers to maintain long-term access to the device for surveillance or data exfiltration purposes. The lack of proper input sanitization creates a fundamental security weakness that undermines the integrity of the device's operational environment and could lead to complete device compromise. Organizations and individuals using GoPro HERO 3+ cameras should consider this vulnerability as a critical risk requiring immediate remediation through firmware updates or network segmentation measures to prevent unauthorized access and potential exploitation.
This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure input validation in embedded web applications and highlights the risks associated with exposing device management interfaces without proper security controls. The flaw represents a significant oversight in the security design of the GoPro camera's web interface implementation, where the assumption was made that user inputs would be benign. The vulnerability affects not only individual users but also organizations that deploy these devices in professional settings, where the compromise of a single device could lead to broader security incidents. Security researchers have noted that similar vulnerabilities have been identified in other embedded systems, emphasizing the need for comprehensive security testing and input validation across all network-accessible components of IoT devices. The remediation approach typically involves firmware updates from the manufacturer that implement proper input sanitization and parameter validation techniques, though users should also consider network-level protections such as firewall rules and access control lists to limit exposure to this vulnerability.