CVE-2018-17173 in SuperSign CMS
Summary
by MITRE
LG SuperSign CMS allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via the sourceUri parameter to qsr_server/device/getThumbnail.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/07/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-17173 affects LG SuperSign CMS, a digital signage management system used by organizations to control and distribute content across multiple displays. This system operates as a centralized management platform that enables administrators to configure, monitor, and update digital signage networks remotely. The affected component is the qsr_server/device/getThumbnail endpoint which processes thumbnail generation requests for device content. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the sourceUri parameter handling mechanism, creating a path for malicious input to be executed as code on the target system.
This represents a classic command injection vulnerability where the sourceUri parameter is directly incorporated into system commands without proper sanitization or validation. The flaw allows remote attackers to manipulate the parameter value to inject malicious commands that get executed in the context of the web server process. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the affected system, potentially gaining full control over the digital signage management server. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it enables remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it accessible to any attacker who can reach the affected system over the network.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to the digital signage network. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain access to sensitive configuration data, manipulate content distribution, and potentially use the compromised system as a launching point for further attacks within the organization's network. The vulnerability affects the integrity and availability of the digital signage infrastructure, potentially disrupting business operations and enabling unauthorized content deployment. Organizations relying on LG SuperSign CMS for critical communications may face significant operational risks if this vulnerability is exploited.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patch application from LG, which addresses the input validation issues in the affected endpoint. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of the affected system to untrusted networks. Input validation should be strengthened at the application level to sanitize all user-supplied data before processing. Regular security assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the digital signage ecosystem. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-94 categories related to command injection and code execution flaws, and maps to ATT&CK techniques such as T1059 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. Organizations should also implement network monitoring to detect suspicious patterns in requests to the affected endpoint and maintain comprehensive incident response procedures for potential exploitation attempts.