CVE-2016-7825 in WNC01WH
Summary
by MITRE
Directory traversal vulnerability in Buffalo WNC01WH devices with firmware version 1.0.0.8 and earlier allows authenticated attackers to read arbitrary files via specially crafted commands.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/15/2019
The CVE-2016-7825 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw affecting Buffalo WNC01WH wireless network cameras and similar devices running firmware versions 1.0.0.8 and earlier. This vulnerability resides in the device's web interface implementation where input validation mechanisms fail to properly sanitize user-supplied parameters, creating an exploitable path traversal condition that allows authenticated attackers to access files outside the intended directory structure. The flaw specifically manifests when the device processes requests containing specially crafted file paths that leverage directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ to navigate beyond the device's designated file system boundaries.
From a technical perspective, the vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the device's file access routines, which directly translates to a CWE-22: Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory vulnerability. The affected devices operate on embedded web servers that handle file operations without adequate sanitization of user-provided path parameters, enabling attackers who have authenticated access to the device to construct malicious requests that bypass normal file system access controls. This flaw operates at the application layer and can be exploited through the device's web management interface, making it particularly dangerous as it requires minimal privileges to exploit.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, as it can potentially expose sensitive device configuration files, authentication credentials, and other confidential data stored on the device. An authenticated attacker could leverage this vulnerability to read system files, configuration databases, or even firmware images, potentially leading to complete device compromise. The vulnerability affects not just the specific WNC01WH model but likely other Buffalo devices using similar firmware architectures, creating a widespread risk across the vendor's product line. Attackers could use this capability to escalate privileges, extract network configuration details, or gain insights into the device's internal structure that could aid in further exploitation attempts.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1083: File and Directory Discovery, as it enables attackers to enumerate and access files that should normally be restricted. The exploitation requires only authentication credentials, making it particularly concerning as it can be leveraged by insiders or attackers who have obtained legitimate access to the device. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including firmware updates to version 1.0.0.9 or later, which contain proper input validation and path traversal protections. Network segmentation and access control measures should be enforced to limit exposure, while monitoring for unusual file access patterns or directory traversal attempts can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices in embedded systems and the necessity of input validation at all layers of application processing.