CVE-2018-4028 in A1 Dashcam
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable firmware update vulnerability exists in the NT9665X Chipset firmware running on the Anker Roav A1 Dashcam, version RoavA1SWV1.9. The HTTP server could allow an attacker to overwrite the root directory of the server, resulting in a denial of service. An attacker can send an HTTP POST request to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/17/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-4028 represents a critical firmware update flaw within the NT9665X chipset firmware of the Anker Roav A1 Dashcam device. This vulnerability manifests specifically within the firmware version RoavA1SWV1.9 and stems from improper handling of HTTP server requests during firmware update operations. The device operates with an embedded HTTP server that manages firmware updates, creating a potential attack surface where malicious actors can exploit the update mechanism to gain unauthorized control over the system's root directory. The flaw exists due to inadequate input validation and path traversal controls within the firmware update handler, allowing remote attackers to manipulate the update process through crafted HTTP requests.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a specifically crafted HTTP POST request that targets the firmware update endpoint of the device's embedded web server. When processed, this request bypasses normal security controls that should prevent modification of critical system directories, particularly the root directory. The vulnerability is classified as a path traversal issue that enables arbitrary file overwrite capabilities, allowing attackers to replace or corrupt essential firmware components. This flaw aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-770 Allocation of Resources Without Limits or Throttling, as it permits uncontrolled file system access and resource manipulation. The root cause lies in the firmware's failure to properly validate and sanitize user-supplied paths during update operations, creating a direct path for privilege escalation and system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service conditions, as it represents a significant security risk that could enable complete system takeover. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can overwrite critical system files, potentially rendering the device inoperable or allowing installation of malicious firmware that maintains persistent access. The dashcam's functionality as a security device becomes compromised, as the attacker could disable logging capabilities, modify recorded footage, or create backdoors for future access. This vulnerability particularly affects automotive security systems where devices operate in uncontrolled environments, making them susceptible to physical and remote attacks. The impact severity increases when considering that dashcams often store sensitive data including location information and visual recordings of vehicle activity, making the compromise of such devices a serious privacy and security concern.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-4028 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term architectural improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves firmware updates from the manufacturer that implement proper input validation and path sanitization controls, specifically addressing the HTTP POST request handling during firmware updates. Organizations should implement network segmentation to isolate these devices from critical infrastructure and apply network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious HTTP traffic patterns. Device administrators should disable unnecessary HTTP services when not actively performing firmware updates and implement strict access controls to limit who can interact with the device's update endpoints. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure firmware development practices and adherence to security standards such as those outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and ISO/IEC 27031, which emphasize the need for secure configuration management and regular vulnerability assessments. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1072 Software Deployment Tools, highlighting the need for defensive measures that monitor and control software update mechanisms to prevent unauthorized system modifications.