CVE-2018-20342 in IP Camera SP012
Summary
by MITRE
The Floureon IP Camera SP012 provides a root terminal on a UART serial interface without proper access control. This allows attackers with physical access to execute arbitrary commands with root privileges.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/23/2020
The Floureon IP Camera SP012 represents a critical security vulnerability that stems from inadequate access control mechanisms within its hardware infrastructure. This device exposes a root terminal through a UART serial interface, creating an inherent backdoor that bypasses all normal authentication and authorization protocols. The vulnerability exists at the fundamental level of the device's boot process and hardware configuration, where manufacturers failed to implement proper physical security measures to protect the serial console access.
This flaw constitutes a severe design oversight that aligns with CWE-284, which addresses improper access control in software systems. The vulnerability allows attackers with physical possession of the device to gain immediate root access through the UART interface, effectively providing them with complete administrative control over the camera's operations. The absence of proper authentication requirements for this console access means that any individual who can physically interact with the device can execute arbitrary commands with the highest possible privileges, including system modifications, data exfiltration, and complete device compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it creates a persistent security risk that cannot be mitigated through network-based security measures. Once an attacker gains physical access to the camera, they can modify firmware, alter network configurations, disable security features, and establish persistent backdoors within the device. This vulnerability directly enables techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.004 sub-technique for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" and T1068 for "Exploitation for Privilege Escalation," though in this case the privilege escalation occurs at the physical layer rather than through network-based attacks.
The implications of this vulnerability are particularly concerning for surveillance and security applications where the Floureon SP012 cameras are commonly deployed. Organizations relying on these devices for security monitoring face the risk of complete system compromise, as the vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate video feeds, disable security features, and potentially use the cameras as entry points for broader network attacks. The physical access requirement does not eliminate the threat, as many organizations may not adequately secure their physical access controls, particularly in areas where security cameras are installed.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both the immediate physical security concerns and the underlying design flaw. Organizations should implement strict physical access controls to prevent unauthorized individuals from gaining access to the camera's UART interface, including securing device enclosures and implementing tamper-evident measures. Additionally, manufacturers should be encouraged to implement proper access control mechanisms that disable or secure the UART interface during normal operation, and to provide firmware updates that address this vulnerability. The solution should also consider the principles outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, particularly in the areas of identification and protection, to ensure comprehensive security coverage for IoT devices in critical infrastructure deployments.