CVE-2017-9314 in NVR50XX
Summary
by MITRE
Authentication vulnerability found in Dahua NVR models NVR50XX, NVR52XX, NVR54XX, NVR58XX with software before DH_NVR5xxx_Eng_P_V2.616.0000.0.R.20171102. Attacker could exploit this vulnerability to gain access to additional operations by means of forging json message.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/06/2019
The vulnerability CVE-2017-9314 represents a critical authentication flaw in Dahua Network Video Recorder (NVR) systems that affects multiple model ranges including NVR50XX, NVR52XX, NVR54XX, and NVR58XX. This issue stems from inadequate validation of JSON messages within the device's authentication mechanism, creating a pathway for unauthorized access to administrative functions. The vulnerability specifically impacts firmware versions prior to DH_NVR5xxx_Eng_P_V2.616.0000.0.R.20171102, indicating that manufacturers released patched versions to address this security gap. The flaw resides in how the system processes JSON-based authentication requests, allowing attackers to manipulate message content without proper verification.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of JSON payloads that are typically used for authentication purposes within the NVR's API interface. When the device receives a JSON message, it fails to properly validate the integrity and authenticity of the request parameters, enabling attackers to forge legitimate-looking authentication tokens. This weakness aligns with CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues in software systems. The vulnerability essentially allows an attacker to escalate privileges by crafting malicious JSON messages that bypass normal authentication checks, potentially granting access to system configuration settings, user management functions, and video recording controls.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to security infrastructure deployments that rely on Dahua NVR systems. Attackers who successfully exploit this flaw can gain unauthorized access to video surveillance systems, potentially compromising entire security networks within organizations. The impact extends beyond simple unauthorized access as the vulnerability enables attackers to perform administrative operations such as modifying user accounts, changing system configurations, and accessing sensitive video data. This represents a direct violation of the principle of least privilege and can lead to complete system compromise. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal technical expertise to exploit, making it attractive to threat actors with varying skill levels.
The security implications of CVE-2017-9314 align with tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly those related to privilege escalation and credential access. The vulnerability enables attackers to move laterally within networks by gaining access to administrative functions that should be restricted to authorized personnel only. Organizations using affected Dahua NVR models face potential data breaches, unauthorized surveillance access, and disruption of security operations. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to establish persistent access points within network infrastructures, as compromised NVR systems can serve as entry points for broader network infiltration. Security professionals should consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring for unusual authentication patterns to detect potential exploitation attempts.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve immediate firmware updates to versions that address the authentication flaw. Organizations should conduct comprehensive inventory assessments to identify all affected NVR models within their infrastructure and prioritize patching operations. Network monitoring solutions should be configured to detect anomalous JSON message patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing network access controls to limit administrative access to NVR systems and enforcing strong authentication mechanisms can reduce the attack surface. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar authentication weaknesses in other networked security devices. The vulnerability underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date firmware and conducting regular security audits of network infrastructure components to prevent exploitation of known authentication flaws.