CVE-2018-19079 in Opticam i5
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered on Foscam Opticam i5 devices with System Firmware 1.5.2.11 and Application Firmware 2.21.1.128. The ONVIF devicemgmt SystemReboot method allows unauthenticated reboot.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/10/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-19079 affects Foscam Opticam i5 security cameras running specific firmware versions, representing a critical authentication bypass flaw that undermines the device's operational integrity. This issue resides within the ONVIF device management interface, which is a standardized protocol for configuration and management of IP-based security devices. The vulnerability specifically targets the SystemReboot method, which should normally require authentication credentials to execute but instead accepts commands from any unauthenticated client. This represents a fundamental breakdown in the device's security model where administrative functions are exposed without proper access controls, creating a pathway for unauthorized system manipulation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper access control mechanisms within the ONVIF service implementation. The SystemReboot method, which should be protected by authentication credentials and authorization checks, operates without verifying the identity or privileges of the requesting client. This flaw allows any network-connected entity to send a reboot command to the device, effectively enabling remote denial-of-service attacks. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the system level rather than application level, meaning the device will reboot regardless of its current operational state or security configuration. This represents a CWE-284 (Improper Access Control) vulnerability classified under the broader category of authentication bypass issues.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial-of-service scenarios, as it can be exploited to disrupt security operations and potentially create conditions that facilitate more sophisticated attacks. When an attacker can remotely reboot a security camera, they can effectively disable the device's monitoring capabilities, which may occur during critical periods or when the device is actively recording security events. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where these cameras serve as part of a larger security infrastructure, as the unauthorized rebooting of multiple devices could create a cascading failure effect. The attack surface is further expanded by the fact that the vulnerability is accessible over the network without requiring any prior authentication, making it trivial to exploit from external networks.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically under the T1499.004 technique for network denial of service attacks and potentially T1566 for initial access through network services. Organizations using Foscam Opticam i5 devices should implement immediate mitigations including network segmentation to isolate these devices from critical network segments, disabling unnecessary ONVIF services where possible, and applying firmware updates once available from Foscam. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper security configuration management and demonstrates the risks associated with default configurations that expose administrative functions without adequate authentication requirements. Additionally, network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual reboot patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, as this behavior would be anomalous within normal operational procedures.