CVE-2017-16326 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_sonos, at 0x9d01e5f4, the value for the `sn_sonos_cmd` key is copied using `strcpy` to the buffer at `$sp+0x2b0`.This buffer is 32 bytes large, sending anything longer will cause a buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/04/2023
The vulnerability described in CVE-2017-16326 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow in the Insteon Hub's PubNub message handler component. This flaw exists within the firmware version 1012 of the Insteon Hub device, which is a smart home automation hub designed to control various home automation devices including lighting, thermostats, and security systems. The vulnerability specifically affects the "cc" channel handling mechanism within the PubNub messaging service integration, which serves as a communication bridge between the hub and external services. The flaw stems from improper input validation and unsafe string handling practices that allow maliciously crafted data to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs within the cmd s_sonos function at memory address 0x9d01e5f4 where the system copies data from the `sn_sonos_cmd` key using the dangerous `strcpy` function without proper bounds checking. The buffer allocated at `$sp+0x2b0` has a fixed size of only 32 bytes, making it extremely susceptible to overflow when processing user-supplied input that exceeds this limit. This unsafe copying operation violates fundamental security principles and creates a predictable memory corruption scenario where attacker-controlled data can overwrite critical stack variables, return addresses, and other program state information. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-121 stack-based buffer overflow, which is a well-documented and highly exploitable class of security flaws that can lead to arbitrary code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it provides attackers with a potential path to full system compromise of the Insteon Hub device. Since the vulnerability requires only an authenticated HTTP request to trigger, an attacker with network access and valid credentials could potentially execute malicious code on the device, leading to complete system takeover. This compromise could result in unauthorized access to all connected smart home devices, enabling attackers to manipulate lighting, temperature controls, security systems, and other automated home functions. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as successful exploitation would allow attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the compromised device. Additionally, the compromised hub could serve as a pivot point for attacking other devices on the same network, potentially expanding the attack surface significantly.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate firmware updates from the manufacturer to address the buffer overflow issue through proper input validation and safe string handling practices. System administrators should implement network segmentation to limit access to the Insteon Hub device and restrict the attack surface by disabling unnecessary services. The use of intrusion detection systems and network monitoring can help detect anomalous traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing strong authentication controls and regular credential rotation can reduce the risk of unauthorized access to the device. Organizations should also consider disabling the PubNub integration if it is not essential for their operations, as this would eliminate the attack vector entirely. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation, particularly in embedded systems where resource constraints often lead to the use of unsafe functions like strcpy instead of safer alternatives such as strlcpy or strncpy with proper bounds checking.