CVE-2017-5674 in Web Server
Summary
by MITRE
A vulnerability in a custom-built GoAhead web server used on Foscam, Vstarcam, and multiple white-label IP camera models allows an attacker to craft a malformed HTTP ("GET system.ini HTTP/1.1\n\n" - note the lack of "/" in the path field of the request) request that will disclose the configuration file with the login password.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/06/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-5674 represents a critical path traversal flaw in the GoAhead web server implementation deployed on numerous IP camera models including Foscam and Vstarcam devices. This weakness stems from insufficient input validation within the HTTP request parsing mechanism where the web server fails to properly sanitize the URI path component of incoming requests. The specific flaw manifests when an attacker constructs a malformed HTTP GET request that omits the leading forward slash character in the path field, creating a condition where the server interprets the request incorrectly and subsequently exposes sensitive configuration files.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a carefully crafted HTTP request that bypasses normal access controls by manipulating the request structure. When the GoAhead web server receives a request formatted as "GET system.ini HTTP/1.1" without the required leading slash, the server's internal path resolution logic fails to properly validate or sanitize the request path. This allows the attacker to directly access the system.ini configuration file that contains administrative credentials and other sensitive information. The vulnerability is classified as a directory traversal issue under CWE-22, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal or directory traversal attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe given the widespread deployment of affected IP camera models across various security-sensitive environments including residential, commercial, and industrial installations. Once exploited, attackers gain access to administrative login credentials stored in plaintext within the configuration files, enabling them to assume full control over the affected devices. This compromise allows unauthorized users to modify camera settings, access live video feeds, disable security features, and potentially use the compromised devices as entry points for broader network infiltration. The vulnerability affects not only individual devices but also entire networks of interconnected cameras that may share similar configuration structures, making it particularly dangerous for organizations relying on IP camera surveillance systems.
Security mitigations for this vulnerability should focus on immediate firmware updates provided by manufacturers including Foscam and Vstarcam, which typically address the path validation logic in the web server implementation. Network administrators should implement additional protective measures including firewall rules that restrict access to camera web interfaces, deployment of intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious HTTP request patterns, and regular security audits of networked devices. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation and T1566 for credential access through network services. Organizations should also consider implementing network segmentation to isolate IP camera networks from critical business systems and establish robust patch management processes to ensure timely deployment of security updates. The incident highlights the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in embedded web server implementations, particularly in IoT devices where security vulnerabilities can have far-reaching consequences for privacy and operational security.