CVE-2017-2856 in C1 Indoor HD Camera
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable buffer overflow vulnerability exists in the DDNS client used by the Foscam C1 Indoor HD Camera running application firmware 2.52.2.43. On devices with DDNS enabled, an attacker who is able to intercept HTTP connections will be able to fully compromise the device by creating a rogue HTTP server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/16/2023
The vulnerability described in CVE-2017-2856 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Dynamic Domain Name System client implementation of the Foscam C1 Indoor HD Camera firmware version 2.52.2.43. This security weakness resides in the device's handling of network communications and specifically manifests when the camera's DDNS functionality is enabled. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices within the camera's embedded software, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the device's network stack. The flaw is particularly concerning because it can be triggered through network interception attacks, making it accessible to adversaries who can position themselves between the device and its network infrastructure.
The technical nature of this buffer overflow vulnerability allows an attacker to manipulate memory allocation within the camera's DDNS client process. When the device attempts to process HTTP responses from DDNS servers, insufficient bounds checking enables a malicious actor to craft specially crafted responses that exceed the allocated buffer space. This overflow can overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially including return addresses, function pointers, or other critical control data. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages the camera's trust in HTTP communication, making it particularly dangerous as it requires no physical access or authentication. The attack vector specifically involves intercepting HTTP traffic between the camera and DDNS servers, which can occur through man-in-the-middle attacks or compromised network infrastructure.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple device compromise, as it provides attackers with complete control over the affected camera. Successful exploitation enables unauthorized access to the device's network services, allowing attackers to modify configuration settings, access stored credentials, or even install malicious firmware. The compromised camera can then be used as a pivot point for attacking other devices within the same network, potentially leading to broader security breaches. Additionally, the vulnerability undermines the fundamental security assumptions of networked devices, as it demonstrates that devices with seemingly benign network functionality can become attack vectors for more sophisticated threats. The fact that the exploit requires only network interception makes it particularly dangerous for users who operate these devices in untrusted network environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2856 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves updating the camera firmware to a version that addresses the buffer overflow vulnerability, which would typically include proper input validation and memory management practices. Network administrators should also implement additional security controls such as encrypted communications between devices and DDNS servers, utilizing protocols like HTTPS or TLS to prevent interception attacks. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and reflects patterns commonly associated with ATT&CK technique T1059, specifically the execution of malicious code through compromised network services. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring to detect anomalous traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, while ensuring that DDNS functionality is disabled when not strictly required for device operation.