CVE-2017-16258 in Insteon
Summary
by MITRE • 01/12/2023
Multiple exploitable buffer overflow vulnerabilities exist in the PubNub message handler for the "cc" channel of Insteon Hub running firmware version 1012. Specially crafted commands sent through the PubNub service can cause a stack-based buffer overflow overwriting arbitrary data. An attacker should send an authenticated HTTP request to trigger this vulnerability. In cmd sn_sx, at 0x9d014f7c, the value for the `cmd4` key is copied using `strcpy` to the buffer at `$sp+0x2b0`.This buffer is 32 bytes large, sending anything longer will cause a buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/04/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-16258 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the Insteon Hub's PubNub message handling mechanism. This issue specifically targets the "cc" channel functionality of the device's firmware version 1012, creating a significant security risk for users of this smart home infrastructure. The vulnerability manifests through improper input validation and unsafe string handling practices that allow attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially execute arbitrary code on the affected device.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the sn_sx command handler function at memory address 0x9d014f7c where the system processes the `cmd4` key value through an insecure `strcpy` operation. This particular implementation flaw demonstrates a classic buffer overflow condition where a 32-byte buffer located at `$sp+0x2b0` receives data without proper bounds checking. The `strcpy` function, which does not perform length validation, copies attacker-controlled input directly into the limited buffer space, causing a stack overwrite that can corrupt adjacent memory locations including return addresses and function parameters. This type of vulnerability is categorized under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which falls under the broader category of memory safety issues that have been extensively documented in cybersecurity literature.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data corruption, as it enables remote code execution capabilities when properly exploited. Attackers who can authenticate to the HTTP interface of the Insteon Hub can craft malicious payloads that trigger the buffer overflow condition, potentially allowing them to gain unauthorized access to the device's operating system. This compromise could lead to complete device takeover, enabling attackers to manipulate smart home automation systems, access network credentials, or use the compromised device as a pivot point for further attacks within the local network. The vulnerability's exploitation requires only authenticated HTTP requests, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered by users with legitimate access credentials or through credential compromise attacks.
The attack surface for this vulnerability aligns with the MITRE ATT&CK framework's T1071.004 technique for Application Layer Protocol: DNS, though more specifically it relates to T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell and T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter: Windows Command Shell, as attackers would need to craft and execute malicious commands through the affected PubNub channel interface. Network security professionals should recognize this as a high-priority vulnerability requiring immediate remediation, particularly in environments where smart home devices are deployed. The vulnerability's presence in the firmware version 1012 indicates that this was likely an oversight in the development lifecycle where proper input validation and secure coding practices were not adequately implemented during the software development phase, highlighting the importance of security testing and code review processes.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate firmware updates from Insteon to address the buffer overflow condition, along with network segmentation to limit access to the affected devices. Security monitoring should focus on detecting anomalous HTTP traffic patterns to the Insteon Hub's PubNub interface, particularly around the "cc" channel. Organizations should implement strict access controls and authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized HTTP requests, while also considering network-based intrusion detection systems that can identify suspicious command sequences. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of secure coding practices and the potential consequences of failing to implement proper bounds checking in embedded systems, especially those handling network communications in home automation environments.