CVE-2017-2750 in LaserJet
Summary
by MITRE
Insufficient Solution DLL Signature Validation allows potential execution of arbitrary code in HP LaserJet Enterprise printers, HP PageWide Enterprise printers, HP LaserJet Managed printers, HP OfficeJet Enterprise printers before 2308937_578479, 2405087_018548, and other firmware versions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/01/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2750 represents a critical security flaw in Hewlett Packard's enterprise printing infrastructure that stems from insufficient validation of Dynamic Link Library (DLL) signatures during the firmware update process. This weakness specifically affects a broad range of HP LaserJet Enterprise printers, HP PageWide Enterprise printers, HP LaserJet Managed printers, and HP OfficeJet Enterprise printers across multiple firmware versions. The vulnerability resides in the printer's固件update mechanism where the system fails to properly verify the digital signatures of DLL files before executing them, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject unauthorized code into the printer's operational environment.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker can manipulate the firmware update process to load a malicious DLL file that appears legitimate due to the lack of proper signature validation. This flaw allows for arbitrary code execution within the printer's operating system context, potentially enabling attackers to gain persistent access to the device and its network resources. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects enterprise-grade printing solutions that often operate within trusted network segments and may have elevated privileges or direct access to sensitive network resources. The insufficient signature validation creates a trust boundary violation where the printer's firmware update mechanism cannot distinguish between legitimate and malicious code components, effectively allowing attackers to bypass security controls that should prevent unauthorized modifications.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability exposes organizations to significant risks including unauthorized access to print jobs, potential data exfiltration through compromised printer networks, and the possibility of using affected printers as entry points for broader network infiltration. The attack surface extends beyond individual printer compromise to include potential lateral movement within network environments where printers are connected. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to establish persistent backdoors within printer systems, potentially using them as staging points for more sophisticated attacks or to monitor network traffic. The vulnerability also impacts the integrity of print operations and could lead to unauthorized printing of sensitive documents or modification of print queue configurations.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the latest firmware updates provided by HP to address the signature validation weakness. Network segmentation strategies should be employed to isolate printer networks from critical business systems, and access controls should be tightened to limit who can initiate firmware updates or modify printer configurations. Monitoring for unusual network traffic patterns or unauthorized firmware update activities can help detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-693 weakness classification related to protection mechanism failures and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage within printer environments. Additionally, this issue demonstrates the importance of proper code signing validation in embedded systems and highlights the need for robust security controls in Internet of Things (IoT) devices including enterprise printing infrastructure.