CVE-2015-2049 in DCS-931l
Summary
by MITRE
Unrestricted file upload vulnerability in D-Link DCS-931L with firmware 1.04 and earlier allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code by uploading a file with an executable extension.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/06/2024
The CVE-2015-2049 vulnerability represents a critical unrestricted file upload flaw in D-Link DCS-931L network camera devices running firmware version 1.04 or earlier. This vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-434, which specifically addresses insecure file upload handling where applications allow users to upload files without proper validation of file types or content. The flaw enables remote authenticated attackers to bypass security controls and upload malicious files to the device, creating a significant attack surface for potential exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the device's web interface upload functionality. When authenticated users upload files to the camera's storage system, the device fails to properly verify the file extensions or content types, allowing attackers to submit executable files with extensions such as .exe, .bat, or .sh. This lack of proper sanitization creates an environment where malicious code can be seamlessly integrated into the device's file system, effectively providing attackers with a persistent foothold within the network infrastructure.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability poses severe risks to network security and device integrity. Once exploited, attackers can execute arbitrary code on the affected device, potentially leading to complete device compromise, data exfiltration, or use of the camera as a pivot point for further network reconnaissance. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only authenticated access, meaning that attackers who have gained legitimate user credentials can leverage this flaw to escalate their privileges and gain unauthorized control over the security camera system. This scenario directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004, which covers legitimate credentials and valid accounts for persistence and privilege escalation.
The exploitation of CVE-2015-2049 demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and secure file handling practices in embedded network devices. Organizations using D-Link DCS-931L cameras should immediately implement firmware updates to address this vulnerability, as the manufacturer has released patches to resolve the insecure file upload implementation. Additionally, network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities. The vulnerability also highlights the need for comprehensive security testing of network devices, particularly those with web interfaces that handle file uploads, to prevent similar issues from occurring in other embedded systems within the organization's infrastructure.