CVE-2017-2871 in C1 Indoor HD Camera
Summary
by MITRE
Insufficient security checks exist in the recovery procedure used by the Foscam C1 Indoor HD Camera running application firmware 2.52.2.43. An attacker who is in the same subnetwork of the camera or has remote administrator access can fully compromise the device by performing a firmware recovery using a custom image.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/25/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-2871 affects the Foscam C1 Indoor HD Camera model which operates with firmware version 2.52.2.43. This security flaw resides within the device's recovery procedure implementation, representing a critical weakness in the camera's security architecture that allows unauthorized access and complete device compromise. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms during the firmware recovery process, creating an attack vector that can be exploited by adversaries with network proximity or administrative privileges. The flaw manifests specifically in how the device handles firmware updates through recovery mode, where the system fails to perform adequate authentication and integrity verification checks before accepting and installing custom firmware images.
This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-284 Access Control Issues and CWE-310 Cryptographic Issues within the Common Weakness Enumeration framework, as it demonstrates inadequate access controls during firmware installation and potentially weak cryptographic validation of recovery procedures. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker within the same network subnet, eliminating the need for complex remote exploitation techniques. The recovery procedure lacks proper input validation and authentication mechanisms that should normally be enforced during firmware updates, allowing malicious actors to inject custom firmware images that can completely subvert the device's operational integrity. The flaw represents a fundamental breakdown in the device's security model, where the recovery mechanism becomes a backdoor for full device compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it enables complete device takeover and potential lateral movement within network environments. Once compromised, the attacker gains full administrative control over the camera, allowing for persistent surveillance, data exfiltration, and potential use as a pivot point for further network infiltration. The vulnerability affects not only individual devices but also creates risks for network-wide security when multiple cameras are deployed in enterprise or residential environments. The recovery process typically bypasses normal operational security controls, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking persistent access to surveillance infrastructure. This vulnerability undermines the fundamental security assumptions of networked security devices and creates a significant risk for organizations relying on IP-based surveillance systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2871 should focus on immediate firmware updates from Foscam, network segmentation to isolate security cameras from critical systems, and implementation of network access controls to prevent unauthorized access to camera recovery interfaces. Organizations should also consider disabling recovery modes when not actively needed and implementing network monitoring to detect suspicious firmware update activities. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure boot processes and proper firmware validation mechanisms as outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to privilege escalation and persistence through firmware manipulation. Regular security assessments of networked devices and implementation of device inventory management practices can help identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities across enterprise security infrastructure.