CVE-2017-16338 in Insteon
Summary
by MITRE
An attacker could send an authenticated HTTP request to trigger this vulnerability in Insteon Hub running firmware version 1012. At 0x9d01bad0 the value for the host key is copied using strcpy to the buffer at 0xa00016e0. This buffer is 32 bytes large, sending anything longer will cause a buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/29/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-16338 represents a classic buffer overflow flaw in the Insteon Hub device firmware, specifically affecting versions up to 1012. This issue manifests through an authenticated HTTP request that allows an attacker with valid credentials to exploit a memory corruption vulnerability. The flaw occurs at the memory address 0x9d01bad0 where the host key value is copied using the dangerous strcpy function to a buffer located at 0xa00016e0. The buffer size is limited to 32 bytes, creating a clear and predictable overflow condition when longer input data is provided. This type of vulnerability directly maps to CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. The authenticated nature of this vulnerability means that an attacker must first establish valid credentials to the device, but once achieved, the exploitation becomes straightforward and potentially devastating.
The operational impact of this buffer overflow vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it creates opportunities for arbitrary code execution and system compromise. When an attacker sends data longer than 32 bytes to the vulnerable endpoint, the strcpy operation overflows the designated buffer and can overwrite critical memory segments including return addresses, function pointers, or other control data structures. This memory corruption can lead to unpredictable behavior, system crashes, or more sinister outcomes such as privilege escalation or persistent backdoor installation. The vulnerability's location within the HTTP request processing chain makes it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited through standard network protocols without requiring physical access to the device. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, as the overflow could enable attackers to execute malicious code with elevated privileges. The authenticated access requirement reduces the attack surface but does not eliminate the risk, as legitimate users with compromised credentials could be exploited, or attackers could potentially gain initial access through other means.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-16338 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The most direct solution involves firmware updates from Insteon that implement proper bounds checking and replace the vulnerable strcpy function with safer alternatives such as strlcpy or strncpy with appropriate length validation. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to limit access to the Insteon Hub to authorized personnel only, reducing the potential attack surface. Additionally, monitoring for unusual HTTP request patterns and implementing intrusion detection systems can help identify exploitation attempts before they succeed. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation, particularly in embedded systems where memory constraints often lead to the use of dangerous functions like strcpy. Security professionals should also consider implementing network access controls and regular firmware update policies to ensure that devices remain protected against known vulnerabilities. The issue demonstrates how even authenticated systems can be compromised through buffer overflow flaws, emphasizing the critical need for defense-in-depth strategies that protect against both external and internal threats.