CVE-2015-0604 in Unified IP Phone 9900
Summary
by MITRE
The web framework on Cisco Unified IP 9900 phones with firmware 9.4(.1) and earlier allows remote attackers to upload files to arbitrary locations on a phone s filesystem via crafted HTTP requests, aka Bug ID CSCup90424.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/21/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-0604 affects Cisco Unified IP 9900 phones running firmware version 9.4.1 and earlier, representing a critical security flaw in the device's web framework implementation. This vulnerability enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary file uploads to any location within the phone's filesystem through carefully crafted HTTP requests, effectively bypassing normal file system access controls and permissions. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the web interface handling mechanisms, allowing malicious actors to exploit the phone's HTTP server to place potentially harmful files anywhere on the device's storage.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves sending specially crafted HTTP requests that manipulate the web framework's file upload functionality. Attackers can specify arbitrary file paths during the upload process, circumventing the intended security boundaries and filesystem restrictions. This flaw directly relates to CWE-434, which describes insecure file upload vulnerabilities where applications accept files from untrusted sources without proper validation. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple file placement, as it can enable attackers to install malicious software, modify system configurations, or establish persistent access points on the compromised device. The phone's web interface becomes a vector for complete system compromise, as the uploaded files can potentially execute with the privileges of the web server process or system services.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risks for enterprise networks relying on Cisco IP phones for communication infrastructure. The compromise of a single phone can potentially provide attackers with a foothold for lateral movement within the network, especially if the phones are connected to internal networks or have access to sensitive systems. The attack surface expands when considering that these devices often serve as endpoints for VoIP communications and may be integrated with other enterprise systems. The vulnerability's remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not require physical access or network proximity to the device, making it particularly dangerous in environments where network segmentation is not properly implemented. This flaw can be leveraged to create backdoors, install monitoring tools, or disrupt communication services, potentially affecting business continuity and operational security.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including firmware updates to versions that address the vulnerability, network segmentation to isolate voice infrastructure, and monitoring of HTTP traffic for suspicious file upload patterns. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary code on the device. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and restricting HTTP methods on affected devices can help reduce the attack surface. Security teams should conduct comprehensive network assessments to identify all affected devices and establish monitoring procedures for detecting potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure web framework development practices and proper input validation in embedded systems, particularly those with network connectivity and file system access capabilities.