CVE-2016-10140 in ZoneMinder
Summary
by MITRE
Information disclosure and authentication bypass vulnerability exists in the Apache HTTP Server configuration bundled with ZoneMinder v1.30 and v1.29, which allows a remote unauthenticated attacker to browse all directories in the web root, e.g., a remote unauthenticated attacker can view all CCTV images on the server via the /events URI.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/13/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10140 represents a critical security flaw in the Apache HTTP Server configuration that was bundled with ZoneMinder version 1.30.0. This issue stems from improper access control mechanisms within the web server configuration that fails to adequately restrict directory traversal and file access permissions. The vulnerability specifically affects systems where ZoneMinder is deployed with its bundled Apache server configuration, creating an environment where unauthorized users can exploit misconfigured security settings to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data. The flaw manifests as an information disclosure vulnerability combined with an authentication bypass, creating a particularly dangerous combination that allows attackers to access restricted content without proper credentials. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-284, which addresses improper access control in software systems, and represents a significant deviation from standard security practices that should prevent unauthorized access to web server resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through the Apache HTTP Server's configuration files that are distributed with ZoneMinder v1.30.0. When the bundled Apache server is configured with default or improperly modified settings, it fails to enforce proper directory access controls that should restrict access to web root directories. The configuration likely contains directives that either disable security modules or improperly configure access restrictions, allowing remote attackers to navigate through the file system and access directories that should be protected. This misconfiguration creates a path traversal vulnerability that enables attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms entirely, as the server configuration does not properly validate access permissions for requested resources. The vulnerability specifically impacts the web root directory structure where CCTV image files and other sensitive data are stored, making it particularly dangerous for surveillance systems that rely on ZoneMinder for video management and monitoring.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-10140 extends far beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with complete access to all CCTV imagery stored on the server. This creates significant risks for organizations that depend on ZoneMinder for security monitoring, as unauthorized individuals can view live and recorded video feeds without any authentication requirements. The vulnerability essentially renders the entire surveillance system useless from a security perspective, as attackers can access all video content that should be restricted to authorized personnel only. This type of exposure violates fundamental security principles and creates potential for privacy breaches, corporate espionage, and unauthorized surveillance activities. Organizations using ZoneMinder in environments where security is paramount, such as corporate facilities, financial institutions, or critical infrastructure, face severe consequences from this vulnerability as it compromises the integrity of their security monitoring systems and potentially exposes sensitive operational information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-10140 must address both the immediate configuration issues and broader security posture improvements. The primary remediation involves updating the Apache HTTP Server configuration files to properly implement access controls and authentication mechanisms for all web root directories. Administrators should review and modify the server configuration to ensure that proper access restrictions are in place, including implementing authentication requirements for all sensitive directories and disabling unnecessary directory listing capabilities. This remediation process should also include updating to newer versions of ZoneMinder that contain fixed configurations or implementing custom Apache configurations that properly enforce access controls. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security measures such as network segmentation, firewall rules to restrict access to the web server, and regular security audits to identify and address similar configuration vulnerabilities. The remediation process aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol, as it addresses the exploitation of web server configuration weaknesses to bypass authentication mechanisms. Security teams should also implement monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized access attempts and establish incident response procedures to address potential exploitation of this vulnerability.