CVE-2017-2829 in C1 Indoor HD Camera
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable directory traversal vulnerability exists in the web management interface used by the Foscam C1 Indoor HD Camera running application firmware 2.52.2.37. A specially crafted HTTP request can cause the application to read a file from disk but a failure to adequately filter characters results in allowing an attacker to specify a file outside of a directory. An attacker can simply send an HTTP request to the device to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/08/2022
The CVE-2017-2829 vulnerability represents a critical directory traversal flaw in the Foscam C1 Indoor HD Camera's web management interface, specifically affecting firmware version 2.52.2.37. This vulnerability resides within the device's web server implementation and demonstrates a fundamental failure in input validation and file access controls. The flaw allows attackers to bypass intended directory restrictions and access arbitrary files on the device's storage system through carefully crafted HTTP requests. The vulnerability stems from insufficient filtering of special characters in file path parameters, enabling malicious users to manipulate the application's file access behavior. This issue directly impacts the camera's security model and exposes sensitive data that should remain restricted to authorized users only.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through HTTP requests that contain directory traversal sequences such as "../" or similar path manipulation techniques. When the web management interface processes these requests, it fails to properly validate or sanitize the input parameters that specify file paths, allowing attackers to navigate outside the intended directory structure. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages the device's web server functionality to access files that should be protected within the camera's file system. This flaw aligns with CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects a network-connected security device that may contain sensitive configuration data, logs, or even user credentials stored on the device's local storage.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-2829 extends beyond simple unauthorized file access, potentially enabling attackers to extract sensitive information from the camera's file system. Depending on the device configuration and available files, attackers may gain access to system configuration parameters, user credentials, network settings, or other potentially sensitive data stored locally. The vulnerability can be exploited remotely without requiring physical access to the device, making it particularly dangerous for security-conscious deployments. Organizations using Foscam C1 cameras with the affected firmware version face significant risks including potential data breaches, unauthorized surveillance access, and compromise of the broader network infrastructure. This vulnerability also represents a potential entry point for further attacks within a network, as compromised cameras can serve as footholds for lateral movement. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability affects consumer-grade security cameras that are often deployed in environments where they receive minimal security updates and maintenance.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2829 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from Foscam, as the vendor has likely released patches addressing this specific vulnerability. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit direct access to camera management interfaces from untrusted networks, utilizing firewalls and access control lists to restrict port 80 and 443 traffic to authorized personnel only. Regular security audits of networked devices should include verification of firmware versions and patch status for all connected cameras. Additional defensive measures include implementing network monitoring to detect unusual HTTP traffic patterns, disabling unnecessary web management interfaces when not actively required, and establishing regular vulnerability scanning procedures for all networked devices. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify attempts to exploit directory traversal vulnerabilities, and maintain comprehensive backup procedures for camera configurations to facilitate rapid recovery if exploitation occurs. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices, as outlined in the ATT&CK framework under the technique of Directory Traversal and Path Manipulation, which emphasizes the need for robust application-level security controls to prevent unauthorized access to system resources.