CVE-2017-16340 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 0x9d01c0e8 the value for the s_dport key is copied using strcpy to the buffer at 0xa000180c. This buffer is 6 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-2017-16340 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Insteon Hub device firmware, specifically affecting version 1012. This issue manifests through an authenticated HTTP request that allows an attacker to manipulate the s_dport key parameter, creating conditions for memory corruption. The technical implementation involves a direct copy operation using strcpy function at memory address 0x9d01c0e8, which transfers data to a destination buffer located at 0xa000180c. The buffer size is explicitly limited to six bytes, creating a clear mismatch between the potential input length and available storage space. This fundamental design flaw violates secure coding practices and creates an exploitable condition that can be leveraged by malicious actors with valid authentication credentials.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it provides attackers with potential pathways for arbitrary code execution within the device's operational environment. The buffer overflow condition at 0xa000180c creates opportunities for stack smashing, heap corruption, or other memory-related exploits that could allow attackers to gain elevated privileges or completely compromise the device's functionality. The authenticated nature of the attack requires an adversary to first obtain valid credentials, but once achieved, the vulnerability offers a direct route to device control and potential lateral movement within home automation networks. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute commands on the compromised device.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-16340 must address both immediate defensive measures and long-term architectural improvements. Organizations should implement firmware updates immediately upon availability, as the vulnerability affects a specific version of Insteon Hub firmware that likely contains patches addressing the buffer overflow condition. Network segmentation should be enforced to limit the potential impact of compromise, particularly in home automation environments where devices may be interconnected. Input validation measures should be strengthened to prevent buffer overflows, including bounds checking and proper memory management practices that prevent the use of unsafe functions like strcpy. Additionally, monitoring systems should be deployed to detect anomalous HTTP request patterns targeting the s_dport parameter, providing early warning of potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and proper memory management in embedded systems, particularly those handling network communications and user authentication.