CVE-2017-2741 in PageWide
Summary
by MITRE
A potential security vulnerability has been identified with HP PageWide Printers, HP OfficeJet Pro Printers, with firmware before 1708D. This vulnerability could potentially be exploited to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/28/2024
The vulnerability identified in CVE-2017-2741 represents a critical security flaw affecting HP PageWide and HP OfficeJet Pro printer models with firmware versions prior to 1708D. This issue falls under the category of arbitrary code execution vulnerabilities, which are particularly dangerous in networked printing environments where printers serve as entry points for malicious actors. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the printer's firmware processing mechanisms, creating a pathway for attackers to inject and execute malicious code directly on the affected devices. Such vulnerabilities are classified under CWE-121 in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog, which details buffer overflow conditions that can lead to arbitrary code execution.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of printer communication protocols, specifically targeting the firmware's handling of incoming print jobs and configuration commands. Attackers can craft malicious print requests or network packets that exploit the insufficient validation checks, allowing them to bypass normal security boundaries and execute unauthorized code on the printer's embedded system. This type of attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001, which involves command and scripting interpreter execution, and T1068, which covers exploit for privilege escalation. The impact is particularly severe because printers often operate with elevated privileges within network environments and may have direct access to sensitive internal networks.
The operational implications of this vulnerability extend beyond simple code execution, as compromised printers can serve as persistent footholds for attackers to conduct reconnaissance, establish command and control channels, or pivot to other network resources. Printers frequently store sensitive information such as print queues, user credentials, and document contents, making them attractive targets for data exfiltration attacks. The vulnerability affects not only the immediate printer functionality but also creates potential for broader network compromise, as printers often lack the robust security controls found on traditional computing devices. Organizations using affected HP printer models face significant risks including unauthorized access to print jobs, potential data breaches, and the possibility of printers being used as launch points for more extensive network attacks. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where print servers and shared printing infrastructure are common.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2741 primarily focus on firmware updates, which HP has released to address the specific validation issues in affected printer models. Organizations should immediately implement firmware version 1708D or later across all affected devices, ensuring proper update procedures are followed to avoid potential service disruption. Network segmentation should be implemented to isolate printing infrastructure from critical network segments, reducing the potential impact of successful exploitation. Additional protective measures include implementing printer access controls, disabling unnecessary network services, and monitoring print job activities for anomalous behavior patterns. Security professionals should also consider deploying network intrusion detection systems that can identify suspicious communication patterns associated with exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining current firmware versions and implementing robust patch management processes for all networked printing equipment, as these devices often represent overlooked security vectors in enterprise environments.