CVE-2017-10871 in Wi-Fi STATION L-02F
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in NTT DOCOMO Wi-Fi STATION L-02F Software version L02F-MDM9625-V10h-JUN-23-2017-DCM-JP and earlier allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code via unspecified vectors.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/05/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-10871 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the NTT DOCOMO Wi-Fi STATION L-02F device firmware. This issue affects software versions up to and including L02F-MDM9625-V10h-JUN-23-2017-DCM-JP, exposing devices to potential remote code execution attacks. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation mechanisms within the wireless access point's firmware implementation, creating a condition where maliciously crafted input data can exceed allocated buffer boundaries and overwrite adjacent memory regions. Such buffer overflow conditions are classified under CWE-121 as stack-based buffer overflow, though the specific implementation details suggest a more complex memory corruption scenario. The attack surface extends beyond simple network traffic analysis as the vulnerability allows for arbitrary code execution, fundamentally compromising the device's operational integrity and potentially providing attackers with complete control over the affected wireless infrastructure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through unspecified attack vectors that likely involve crafting malicious network packets or configuration data that triggers the buffer overflow condition during normal device operation. When the vulnerable firmware processes malformed input data, the overflow can corrupt critical program execution flow, potentially allowing attackers to redirect execution to malicious code payloads. This represents a sophisticated attack pattern that aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, specifically targeting the device's firmware execution environment. The memory corruption can manifest through various attack pathways including but not limited to HTTP requests, wireless configuration protocols, or network management communications, all of which pass through the vulnerable firmware processing layers. The vulnerability's impact is particularly severe because it affects the core wireless infrastructure device that serves as a critical communication gateway for network users.
The operational implications of CVE-2017-10871 extend far beyond individual device compromise, as affected Wi-Fi STATION L-02F units can serve as entry points for broader network infiltration. Once an attacker gains arbitrary code execution capability on a wireless access point, they can establish persistent backdoors, monitor network traffic, redirect user connections to malicious servers, or use the compromised device as a launching point for attacks against other network segments. This vulnerability directly impacts the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected wireless networks, potentially leading to data breaches, service disruption, and unauthorized network access. The attack vector's unspecified nature suggests that multiple network protocols and communication channels may be exploitable, increasing the attack surface and making comprehensive network protection more challenging. Organizations relying on these devices for critical network infrastructure face significant risk of lateral movement attacks and potential complete network compromise.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate firmware updates from NTT DOCOMO to address the buffer overflow condition and prevent exploitation. Network administrators should implement network segmentation and monitoring to detect anomalous traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The implementation of intrusion detection systems and network access controls can help limit the impact of potential exploitation while firmware updates are deployed. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive network assessments to identify all affected devices and establish monitoring procedures for detecting unauthorized access attempts. Additionally, the vulnerability highlights the importance of secure firmware development practices and regular security assessments of embedded network devices. Given the nature of embedded systems and the potential for persistent compromise, affected organizations should consider implementing network-wide security monitoring and incident response procedures to quickly detect and respond to exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also underscores the need for proper software patch management processes and the importance of maintaining current firmware versions to protect against known security flaws.