CVE-2017-2879 in C1 Indoor HD Camera
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable buffer overflow vulnerability exists in the UPnP implementation used by the Foscam C1 Indoor HD Camera running application firmware 2.52.2.43. A specially crafted UPnP discovery response can cause a buffer overflow resulting in overwriting arbitrary data. An attacker needs to be in the same subnetwork and reply to a discovery message to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/17/2023
The vulnerability described in CVE-2017-2879 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the Universal Plug and Play implementation of the Foscam C1 Indoor HD Camera device. This specific weakness manifests in firmware version 2.52.2.43 where the device's UPnP discovery response handler fails to properly validate input lengths, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote code execution within the device's operational environment. The flaw specifically affects network-connected security cameras that utilize UPnP for device discovery and communication protocols, making it particularly concerning for IoT device security. The vulnerability operates at the network layer where the camera responds to UPnP discovery messages, which are standard broadcast messages used to identify and communicate with network devices. The implementation lacks proper bounds checking mechanisms when processing incoming discovery responses, allowing attackers to craft malicious payloads that exceed the allocated buffer space. This buffer overflow condition enables attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations with arbitrary data, potentially leading to complete device compromise. The attack vector requires network proximity since the attacker must be within the same subnetwork to intercept and respond to discovery messages, but this limitation does not mitigate the severity of the vulnerability. The attack model aligns with the attack technique described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under network service scanning and exploitation of network protocols. This vulnerability directly corresponds to CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple device compromise to encompass potential full network infiltration capabilities. Once exploited, the attacker gains the ability to execute arbitrary code on the camera device, which could enable persistent backdoor access, data exfiltration, or use of the device as a pivot point for attacking other networked systems. The Foscam C1 camera serves as a security device in home and commercial environments, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it could be exploited to undermine the security of entire premises. The buffer overflow affects the device's ability to properly handle network discovery messages, potentially causing system instability or complete device failure in addition to providing attack vectors for code execution. The specific nature of the vulnerability means that attackers do not require sophisticated tools or extensive knowledge to exploit it, as it leverages standard network protocols that are commonly used and understood. The exploitability factor is enhanced by the fact that UPnP discovery messages are routinely broadcast on local networks, making successful exploitation possible through passive monitoring and immediate response. This vulnerability represents a classic example of how IoT devices often lack proper input validation mechanisms that are standard in enterprise network equipment, creating a significant security gap that attackers can exploit.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-2879 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The most effective immediate solution involves firmware updates from Foscam to address the buffer overflow condition, which should include proper bounds checking and input validation for all UPnP discovery response handling. Network segmentation and firewall rules should be implemented to restrict UPnP traffic to only trusted network segments, preventing unauthorized devices from participating in discovery processes. The implementation of network access control lists and disabling unnecessary UPnP services on the device can significantly reduce the attack surface. Additionally, network administrators should implement intrusion detection systems that monitor for unusual UPnP traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments and network scanning should be conducted to identify other potentially vulnerable IoT devices within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and adherence to cybersecurity frameworks such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, which emphasizes the need for robust input validation and memory management in networked applications. Organizations should also consider implementing device management solutions that can automatically detect and remediate vulnerable devices on their networks, ensuring that all IoT endpoints maintain current security configurations. Network monitoring should include detection of unauthorized device discovery responses that could indicate exploitation attempts, and security policies should mandate regular firmware updates for all networked devices to prevent similar vulnerabilities from persisting in operational environments.