CVE-2017-7638 in NAS Application Media Streaming Add-On
Summary
by MITRE
QNAP NAS application Media Streaming add-on version 421.1.0.2, 430.1.2.0, and earlier does not authenticate requests properly. Successful exploitation could lead to change of the Media Streaming settings, and leakage of sensitive information of the QNAP NAS.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-7638 affects the QNAP NAS application Media Streaming add-on, specifically versions 421.1.0.2, 430.1.2.0, and earlier releases. This issue represents a critical authentication flaw that undermines the security posture of QNAP network-attached storage devices. The vulnerability stems from improper request authentication mechanisms within the Media Streaming add-on component, creating a pathway for unauthorized users to exploit the system without proper credentials. The affected software component is part of QNAP's broader ecosystem of network storage solutions, which are widely deployed in both enterprise and home environments for media streaming and data storage purposes.
The technical flaw manifests as a lack of proper authentication validation when processing requests to the Media Streaming add-on functionality. This authentication bypass vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate system settings and access sensitive information without legitimate authorization. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues in software systems. Attackers can leverage this weakness to modify Media Streaming configurations, potentially redirecting media streams to malicious endpoints or altering access controls. The flaw essentially removes the authentication layer that should protect administrative functions and sensitive data within the QNAP NAS environment.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-7638 extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it enables attackers to compromise the integrity and confidentiality of the affected QNAP devices. Successful exploitation could result in unauthorized modification of media streaming settings, potentially allowing attackers to redirect content streams or create backdoor access points. Additionally, the vulnerability exposes sensitive information stored within the QNAP NAS, including user credentials, network configurations, and media library details. This exposure creates significant risks for organizations relying on QNAP devices for media storage and streaming, as attackers could gain access to personal or corporate media collections, potentially leading to data breaches or privacy violations.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, where it aligns with techniques such as credential access and privilege escalation. The vulnerability represents a path for attackers to move laterally within networks where QNAP devices are deployed, potentially enabling further compromise of connected systems. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to the latest firmware versions that address the authentication flaw, implementing network segmentation to isolate affected devices, and monitoring for suspicious activity in media streaming services. The vulnerability underscores the importance of proper authentication mechanisms in network services and highlights the need for regular security assessments of storage and media streaming applications to prevent unauthorized access and data leakage scenarios.