CVE-2017-16297 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 s_schd, at 0x9d01a21c, the value for the `oncmd` key is copied using `strcpy` to the buffer at `$sp+0x2d0`.This buffer is 100 bytes large, sending anything longer will cause a buffer overflow.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/04/2023
The vulnerability described in CVE-2017-16297 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the Insteon Hub's PubNub message handling system. This issue specifically targets the "cc" channel functionality of the Insteon Hub device, which operates with firmware version 1012. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and unsafe string handling practices within the device's message processing pipeline, creating a pathway for remote code execution through carefully crafted malicious payloads. The affected component resides in the cmd s_schd function at memory address 0x9d01a21c where the system processes commands received through the PubNub messaging service. This vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within a network-connected IoT device that controls home automation systems, potentially allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to critical home infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow occurs through the use of the unsafe strcpy function which does not perform bounds checking on the input data. When processing the `oncmd` key value from incoming PubNub messages, the system copies data directly into a buffer located at stack pointer offset +0x2d0 without verifying whether the incoming data exceeds the allocated buffer size of 100 bytes. This fundamental flaw in memory management creates an exploitable condition where an attacker can overflow the designated buffer space and overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and other critical program state information. The vulnerability follows the CWE-121 stack-based buffer overflow pattern, specifically classified under CWE-787 which describes out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities that can lead to arbitrary code execution. The attack vector requires an authenticated HTTP request to the device, indicating that while the vulnerability is remotely exploitable, it may require some form of prior authentication or access to the network.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions to potentially enable full system compromise of Insteon Hub devices. Given that these hubs control home automation systems including lighting, security systems, and other connected devices, successful exploitation could allow attackers to gain complete control over the home network infrastructure. The vulnerability's presence in a device that serves as a central hub for multiple connected devices creates a significant risk for lateral movement within home networks, potentially enabling attackers to access other IoT devices connected to the same network. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059 which describes command and scripting interpreter usage, as the overflow could potentially allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the compromised device. The exploitation of this vulnerability could also facilitate persistent access to the home network through the compromised hub, creating a foothold for further reconnaissance and attack activities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The most direct fix involves implementing proper bounds checking and using safer string manipulation functions such as strlcpy or strncpy instead of strcpy to prevent buffer overflows. Device manufacturers should implement input validation mechanisms that reject messages exceeding predetermined size limits and validate all incoming data before processing. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit unauthorized access to the device's management interfaces, reducing the attack surface for potential exploitation. Regular firmware updates and security patches should be deployed promptly to address known vulnerabilities, with automated update mechanisms to ensure devices remain protected against emerging threats. Organizations should also implement network monitoring solutions to detect anomalous traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, particularly focusing on unusual PubNub messaging patterns or unexpected HTTP requests to device management interfaces. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices in IoT devices and highlights the need for comprehensive security testing throughout the development lifecycle to prevent similar issues in future implementations.