CVE-2017-16331 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_event_alarm, at 0x9d01ebd4, the value for the `s_tid` 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-2017-16331 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow affecting the Insteon Hub device running firmware version 1012. This issue specifically targets the PubNub message handler component responsible for processing commands through the "cc" channel, creating a pathway for remote exploitation that could compromise the entire home automation system. The vulnerability stems from improper input validation and unsafe string handling practices within the device's firmware, making it particularly dangerous for IoT environments where devices often operate with limited security controls. The affected system processes messages through the PubNub messaging service, which serves as a communication bridge between the device and external control systems, amplifying the potential attack surface.
The technical flaw manifests in the cmd s_event_alarm function located at memory address 0x9d01ebd4 where the value associated with the s_tid key is copied using the dangerous strcpy function without proper bounds checking. This primitive operation allows for arbitrary data overwrite when the input exceeds the allocated buffer size of 32 bytes at stack offset $sp+0x2b0. The vulnerability follows the CWE-121 stack-based buffer overflow pattern, where insufficient bounds checking enables attackers to overwrite adjacent stack memory locations including return addresses and local variables. The use of strcpy instead of safer alternatives like strlcpy or strncpy demonstrates a fundamental security oversight in the codebase, creating predictable memory corruption patterns that can be exploited for code execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system instability, as it provides attackers with potential paths to gain unauthorized access to the Insteon Hub device and subsequently the entire connected home automation network. An attacker capable of sending authenticated HTTP requests can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the device, potentially leading to complete system compromise and unauthorized control of connected smart home devices. The attack requires minimal privileges since authentication is already established through the PubNub service, making it particularly concerning for IoT deployments where physical security is often limited. This vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, with the potential for lateral movement within the network.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate firmware updates from Insteon to address the buffer overflow condition through proper input validation and bounds checking. The implementation of stack canaries, address space layout randomization, and non-executable stack protections would significantly reduce the exploitability of similar vulnerabilities. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict access to the PubNub service endpoints, while monitoring systems should be deployed to detect anomalous traffic patterns indicative of exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation, particularly in embedded IoT systems where resource constraints should not compromise security. Organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of their IoT infrastructure and implement robust patch management processes to address similar buffer overflow conditions across their device inventory.