CVE-2017-16272 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 e_l, at 0x9d016cf0, the value for the `grp` key is copied using `strcpy` to the buffer at `$sp+0x1b4`.This buffer is 8 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-2017-16272 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 pathway for remote exploitation that could lead to arbitrary code execution or system compromise. The vulnerability resides in the command processing logic where untrusted input from the PubNub messaging service is directly handled without proper bounds checking, making it susceptible to malicious payload injection.
The technical implementation of this flaw occurs within the cmd e_l function at memory address 0x9d016cf0 where the system employs the dangerous strcpy function to copy data from the `grp` key parameter into a stack buffer that is only 8 bytes in size. This primitive copying operation lacks any validation of input length, allowing an attacker to overflow the designated buffer space and overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and other critical program state information. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-121 stack-based buffer overflow, which directly enables attackers to manipulate program execution flow and potentially gain unauthorized system access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions, as it provides attackers with the capability to execute arbitrary code on the affected Insteon Hub device. Since the vulnerability requires only an authenticated HTTP request to trigger, an attacker with knowledge of valid credentials could exploit this flaw to compromise the device's security posture completely. The affected device becomes vulnerable to remote code execution, which could allow attackers to modify device configurations, access sensitive data, or establish persistent access points within the home automation network. This represents a significant risk for users who rely on Insteon Hub devices for home security and automation management.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-16272 should focus on immediate firmware updates provided by the vendor, as this vulnerability is specifically addressed through firmware patches that implement proper bounds checking and input validation. Organizations should also consider network segmentation to limit access to the Insteon Hub device, implementing authentication controls that restrict HTTP request access to authorized personnel only. Additionally, monitoring network traffic for suspicious PubNub message patterns and implementing intrusion detection systems can help identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation would involve injecting malicious commands through the PubNub service interface. Security teams should also implement proper input sanitization practices and avoid using dangerous functions like strcpy in favor of safer alternatives such as strncpy or strlcpy that provide bounds checking capabilities.