CVE-2014-6434 in HERO
Summary
by MITRE
gpExec in GoPro HERO 3+ allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands via a the (1) a1 or (2) a2 parameter in a restart action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/19/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-6434 resides within the gpExec component of GoPro HERO 3+ camera firmware, representing a critical remote code execution flaw that enables attackers to compromise the device from external networks. This vulnerability specifically targets the camera's restart functionality where two parameters named a1 and a2 are processed without adequate input validation or sanitization, creating an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by remote threat actors.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient parameter validation within the camera's web interface processing layer. When the restart action is invoked with maliciously crafted a1 or a2 parameters, the system fails to properly sanitize user input before executing the corresponding commands. This design flaw allows attackers to inject arbitrary commands that are subsequently executed with the privileges of the gpExec process, effectively granting full control over the camera's operational functions. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-94 categories, specifically addressing command injection weaknesses where untrusted data is directly incorporated into command execution contexts without proper validation mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected GoPro HERO 3+ devices. Remote attackers can execute arbitrary code to modify camera settings, access stored media files, disable security features, or even reconfigure network settings. This capability enables a range of malicious activities including data exfiltration, persistent surveillance, or the deployment of additional malware payloads. The vulnerability is particularly concerning given the widespread use of GoPro cameras in outdoor and surveillance applications where unauthorized access could compromise sensitive footage or create persistent backdoors within network environments. This threat scenario corresponds to ATT&CK techniques categorized under T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1071 for application layer protocols, as attackers can leverage the camera's web interface to establish persistent access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-6434 should focus on immediate firmware updates from GoPro to address the input validation deficiencies in the gpExec component. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the camera's web interface from untrusted networks, while disabling unnecessary services such as remote management capabilities. Additionally, regular security audits should verify that all network-connected devices have up-to-date firmware and that proper input validation mechanisms are implemented in all web application components. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions to detect anomalous command execution patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in embedded systems and web applications, emphasizing that even seemingly benign functionality can become a security risk when proper sanitization controls are absent.