CVE-2018-4014 in A1 Dashcam
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable code execution vulnerability exists in Wi-Fi Command 9999 of the Roav A1 Dashcam running version RoavA1SWV1.9. A specially crafted packet can cause a stack-based buffer overflow, resulting in code execution. An attacker can send a packet to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/17/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-4014 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the Wi-Fi Command 9999 component of the Roav A1 Dashcam firmware version RoavA1SWV1.9. This vulnerability resides in the wireless communication subsystem of a vehicle-mounted dashcam device that is designed for recording and transmitting video data. The flaw specifically manifests when processing incoming network packets through the Wi-Fi command interface, creating a pathway for remote code execution that could be exploited by malicious actors without physical access to the device.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the Wi-Fi command processing module. When the dashcam receives a specially crafted packet designed to exploit the buffer overflow, the system fails to properly bounds-check the incoming data before copying it into a fixed-size stack buffer. This classic buffer overflow condition allows an attacker to overwrite adjacent stack memory locations including return addresses and control data, potentially enabling arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected process. The vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a high-severity weakness in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple device compromise, as it creates a potential attack surface for sophisticated adversaries seeking to gain control of vehicle data systems. An attacker positioned within wireless range of the dashcam can exploit this vulnerability remotely, potentially gaining full control over the device's functionality including video recording, storage management, and network communication capabilities. This remote code execution capability aligns with tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 technique for Command and Scripting Interpreter, where adversaries execute code on compromised systems. The vulnerability also represents a significant concern for automotive cybersecurity as it demonstrates how consumer IoT devices can become entry points for broader vehicle system compromises, particularly in the context of connected car ecosystems where dashcams often integrate with vehicle telematics systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-4014 should focus on immediate firmware updates from the vendor, which would typically include input validation patches and stack protection mechanisms. Network segmentation and firewall rules can help limit the attack surface by restricting access to the dashcam's wireless interfaces. Additionally, implementing intrusion detection systems that monitor for anomalous packet patterns and conducting regular security assessments of vehicle IoT components would help identify similar vulnerabilities in related systems. Organizations should also consider the broader implications for automotive cybersecurity frameworks and ensure that device firmware update mechanisms are secure and regularly maintained to prevent exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in connected vehicle components.