CVE-2017-16262 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 g_b, at 0x9d015864, the value for the `id` key is copied using `strcpy` to the buffer at `$sp+0x290`.This buffer is 32 bytes large, sending anything longer will cause a buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/05/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-16262 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the Insteon Hub's PubNub message handling system. This vulnerability specifically targets the "cc" channel functionality of the Insteon Hub device, which operates with firmware version 1012. The flaw exists within the message processing handler that manages communication through the PubNub service, creating a pathway for remote exploitation that could potentially compromise the entire home automation system. The vulnerability's classification as multiple exploitable buffer overflows indicates that the flaw manifests in several distinct code paths within the system's message handling architecture, each presenting similar security risks to attackers seeking unauthorized access to the device.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the cmd g_b function at memory address 0x9d015864 where the system processes incoming data from the PubNub service. The flaw stems from the insecure use of the strcpy function to copy data from the `id` key parameter into a buffer located at stack offset $sp+0x290. This buffer has a fixed size of only 32 bytes, making it highly susceptible to overflow conditions when processing longer input data. The use of strcpy without proper bounds checking creates an ideal scenario for attackers to craft malicious payloads that exceed the buffer capacity, thereby overwriting adjacent stack memory locations. This particular implementation violates fundamental secure coding practices and aligns with CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation and memory management practices that are commonly exploited in attack scenarios targeting embedded systems and IoT devices.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple buffer overflow consequences, as it provides attackers with potential remote code execution capabilities within the Insteon Hub environment. Since the vulnerability requires only an authenticated HTTP request to trigger, attackers can exploit this flaw from outside the local network, making it particularly dangerous for home automation systems that may not be properly isolated from external threats. The stack-based nature of the overflow allows for precise memory corruption that could potentially be leveraged to overwrite return addresses, function pointers, or other critical control data structures. This scenario creates opportunities for attackers to redirect program execution flow, potentially leading to full system compromise or privilege escalation within the device's operating environment. The vulnerability's presence in a home automation hub represents a significant risk to user privacy and security, as these devices often control critical home systems including lighting, security, and environmental controls. The attack surface is further expanded by the fact that PubNub service communications are typically designed for real-time messaging, making legitimate traffic patterns harder to distinguish from malicious payloads.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-16262 must address both immediate security concerns and long-term system hardening requirements. The most effective immediate solution involves implementing proper bounds checking mechanisms and replacing vulnerable strcpy functions with safer alternatives such as strncpy or strlcpy that enforce maximum buffer limits. Network-level protections should include firewall rules that restrict access to the Insteon Hub's HTTP interfaces and implement authentication controls that limit who can send commands to the device. The system should also incorporate input validation that strictly enforces length limits on all parameters received through the PubNub service, particularly the `id` key field. From a defensive perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter usage, and T1071, which addresses application layer protocol usage, making it a significant concern for enterprise security teams managing IoT device deployments. Regular firmware updates and security patches should be implemented immediately upon availability, and network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual PubNub traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing secure coding practices and conducting regular security audits of embedded systems will help prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in future device implementations, particularly focusing on proper buffer management and input validation protocols that align with industry best practices and security standards.