CVE-2015-1001 in embeddedWebServer
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in IniNet embeddedWebServer (aka eWebServer) before 2.02 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long field in an HTTP request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/17/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-1001 affects IniNet embeddedWebServer, also known as eWebServer version 2.01 and earlier, presenting a critical security risk through multiple stack-based buffer overflow conditions. This embedded web server software is commonly deployed in networked devices and embedded systems where web-based management interfaces are required, making it a target for attackers seeking to exploit weaknesses in IoT and embedded device ecosystems. The flaw manifests when the server processes HTTP requests containing excessively long fields, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged for remote code execution. Such vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous in embedded environments where system resources are limited and traditional security mitigations may be absent or insufficient.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the HTTP request parsing logic of the embedded web server. When an attacker crafts an HTTP request with an oversized field value, the server's stack-based buffer management fails to properly handle the excess data, causing a buffer overflow condition. This overflow corrupts adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control data, which can be manipulated by an attacker to redirect program execution flow. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which represents a well-known and dangerous class of memory corruption vulnerabilities that have been exploited extensively in various attack scenarios. The attack vector is remote and requires no authentication, making it particularly attractive to threat actors seeking to compromise embedded systems at scale.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-1001 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential network infiltration. Embedded systems running vulnerable versions of eWebServer may serve as entry points for broader network attacks, allowing adversaries to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or deploy additional malware. The vulnerability's presence in embedded devices affects a wide range of applications including network appliances, industrial control systems, medical devices, and consumer electronics that rely on embedded web interfaces for configuration and monitoring. Organizations deploying these systems face significant risk exposure, particularly in environments where security controls are minimal or absent, as demonstrated by numerous real-world exploitation attempts targeting similar embedded web server vulnerabilities. The low complexity and high impact nature of this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1210 Exploitation of Remote Services, where attackers leverage network-based vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access to systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-1001 primarily focus on immediate software updates and system hardening measures. Organizations must prioritize upgrading to IniNet embeddedWebServer version 2.02 or later, which includes patches addressing the buffer overflow conditions. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of vulnerable systems to untrusted networks. Input validation should be enhanced at multiple layers including network firewalls, web application firewalls, and application-level defenses to detect and block malformed HTTP requests. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify other potentially vulnerable embedded systems within the network infrastructure. System monitoring should include detection of unusual HTTP traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, and incident response procedures should be established to address potential compromise events. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and regular security testing in embedded software development, particularly for devices that are deployed in environments where they may be exposed to external network traffic and potential attack vectors.