CVE-2017-16305 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_exw, at 0x9d01b20c, 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 • 02/04/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-16305 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow in the Insteon Hub's PubNub message handler component. This flaw exists specifically within the "cc" channel processing functionality of the device's firmware version 1012, creating a significant security risk for users of this smart home automation hardware. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and unsafe string handling practices that allow attackers to manipulate memory structures through carefully crafted malicious payloads.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the cmd sn_exw function at memory address 0x9d01b20c where the system employs the dangerous strcpy function to copy data from the `id` key parameter into a stack buffer. This buffer allocation is insufficient at only 32 bytes in size, creating a clear mismatch between the expected input length and the actual buffer capacity. The flaw demonstrates poor software engineering practices that directly map to CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient space is allocated for string operations. When an attacker sends a payload exceeding the 32-byte buffer limit, the excess data overflows into adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting critical program state information including return addresses and local variables.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it provides attackers with potential code execution capabilities through the exploitation of the stack overflow condition. The requirement for an authenticated HTTP request indicates that the attack vector involves legitimate user credentials or session tokens, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where the device is accessible over networks. This authentication requirement does not mitigate the severity of the exploit, as it represents a privilege escalation or lateral movement opportunity within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter execution, as successful exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the affected device. The compromised device could then serve as a pivot point for further attacks within the home network, potentially compromising other connected IoT devices or serving as a command and control node for broader network infiltration.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-16305 must address both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The most direct solution involves patching the firmware to either increase buffer size beyond the maximum expected input length or implementing proper bounds checking using safer string handling functions such as strncpy instead of strcpy. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit the exposure of the affected device to untrusted networks. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and memory safety practices, which should be enforced through secure coding guidelines and code review processes. Additionally, monitoring for unusual PubNub traffic patterns or unauthorized HTTP requests to the device could help detect potential exploitation attempts. The remediation approach should also include network-level protections such as firewall rules that restrict access to the device's administrative interfaces and ensure that only trusted sources can communicate with the affected service. Regular firmware updates and vulnerability assessments remain critical for maintaining security posture against similar issues in IoT ecosystems.