CVE-2017-16304 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_ex, at 0x9d01ae40, the value for the `d` key is copied using `strcpy` to the buffer at `$sp+0x334`.This buffer is 100 bytes large, sending anything longer will cause a buffer overflow.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/04/2023
The vulnerability described in CVE-2017-16304 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the Insteon Hub's PubNub message handling system. This issue specifically affects 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 mechanisms that allow malicious actors to exploit the system through carefully crafted malicious commands transmitted via the PubNub messaging service. The attack vector requires an authenticated HTTP request, indicating that the vulnerability cannot be exploited through unauthenticated means, but rather requires prior access to legitimate credentials or session tokens. This authentication requirement does not mitigate the severity of the vulnerability, as it still allows for privilege escalation and system compromise once access is obtained.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the cmd sn_ex function at memory address 0x9d01ae40, where the system processes data from the "d" key parameter. The flaw manifests when the system employs the unsafe strcpy function to copy data into a buffer located at stack pointer offset $sp+0x334. This particular buffer has a fixed size of 100 bytes, making it susceptible to overflow when input data exceeds this limit. The use of strcpy without proper bounds checking creates an ideal environment for stack corruption, as the function does not verify the length of the source data before copying it to the destination buffer. This practice directly violates secure coding principles and is classified under CWE-121, which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions. The vulnerability's exploitation potential is significantly enhanced by the fact that it operates within a network-accessible service, allowing remote attackers to craft malicious payloads that can overwrite adjacent stack memory locations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as the buffer overflow can potentially be leveraged for arbitrary code execution or complete system compromise. When an attacker successfully overflows the 100-byte buffer, they can overwrite critical stack data including return addresses, saved registers, and other program state information. This type of memory corruption can lead to unpredictable program behavior, system crashes, or more sinister outcomes such as privilege escalation and persistent backdoor access. The vulnerability's presence in a home automation hub like the Insteon Hub presents particular concern, as these devices often serve as central control points for home security systems, lighting controls, and other critical infrastructure components. The potential for attackers to gain unauthorized access to these systems could result in complete home network compromise, unauthorized surveillance, or manipulation of security mechanisms. From an adversarial perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the compromised device.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should prioritize immediate firmware updates from the manufacturer to address the underlying buffer overflow condition. Organizations and individuals should implement network segmentation to limit access to the Insteon Hub and its associated PubNub services, reducing the attack surface. Additional protective measures include implementing strict input validation at all network boundaries, deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious PubNub traffic patterns, and conducting regular security assessments of home automation infrastructure. The vulnerability highlights the critical importance of secure coding practices, particularly the avoidance of dangerous functions like strcpy in favor of safer alternatives such as strncpy or strlcpy that provide bounds checking. Network administrators should also consider implementing authentication and authorization controls to ensure that only authorized entities can access the vulnerable PubNub channel endpoints, while monitoring for unusual traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. These defensive measures are essential given the potential for this vulnerability to serve as a foothold for broader network infiltration, particularly in environments where home automation systems are integrated with critical infrastructure or sensitive data processing components.