CVE-2017-5173 in IP Camera G-Cam EFD-2250
Summary
by MITRE
An Improper Neutralization of Special Elements (in an OS command) issue was discovered in Geutebruck IP Camera G-Cam/EFD-2250 Version 1.11.0.12. An improper neutralization of special elements vulnerability has been identified. If special elements are not properly neutralized, an attacker can call multiple parameters that can allow access to the root level operating system which could allow remote code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/12/2024
The CVE-2017-5173 vulnerability represents a critical command injection flaw in Geutebruck IP Camera G-Cam/EFD-2250 devices running firmware version 1.11.0.12. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-77 category of Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in a Command, which is a fundamental security weakness that allows attackers to inject malicious commands into the underlying operating system. The vulnerability specifically affects how the device processes user input parameters, particularly those related to system commands, creating an avenue for exploitation that can result in complete system compromise. The flaw exists in the device's web interface handling of parameters, where input validation and sanitization mechanisms are insufficient to prevent malicious command injection attempts.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker sends specially crafted HTTP requests containing malicious command parameters to the affected IP camera. The device fails to properly sanitize or escape special characters in these parameters, allowing an attacker to inject OS commands directly into the system shell. This improper neutralization enables an attacker to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the root user, effectively granting complete control over the device's operating system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it a significant threat to network security. Attackers can leverage this flaw to gain persistent access to the device, potentially using it as a foothold for broader network infiltration or to establish command and control channels.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-5173 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity and confidentiality of the affected network infrastructure. Once an attacker gains root-level access, they can modify device configurations, install backdoors, capture network traffic, or use the compromised device as a pivot point to attack other systems within the same network segment. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables attackers to execute commands on the target system. The risk is amplified in environments where IP cameras are deployed without proper network segmentation, as these devices often serve as entry points for attackers seeking to expand their access within corporate networks. Organizations using these devices face potential data breaches, service disruption, and compliance violations, particularly in regulated environments where physical security monitoring systems must maintain strict operational integrity.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-5173 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from Geutebruck, as the vendor has released patches addressing this specific vulnerability. Network administrators should implement strict network segmentation to isolate IP camera devices from critical systems, using firewalls and access control lists to restrict communication to only necessary services. Regular security assessments and network monitoring are essential to detect potential exploitation attempts, while implementing intrusion detection systems can help identify suspicious command execution patterns. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and proper sanitization in web applications, aligning with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-160 and OWASP Top Ten. Organizations should also consider deploying network-based security controls such as web application firewalls to filter malicious requests before they reach vulnerable devices, and establish incident response procedures specifically tailored to address IoT device compromises. Additionally, regular vulnerability scanning and penetration testing of network infrastructure can help identify similar vulnerabilities in other networked devices that may be susceptible to command injection attacks.