CVE-2018-7825 in Sarix Enhanced Camera
Summary
by MITRE
A Command Injection vulnerability exists in the web-based GUI of the 1st Gen PelcoSarix Enhanced Camera that could allow a remote attacker to execute arbitrary commands.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/23/2023
The CVE-2018-7825 vulnerability represents a critical command injection flaw in the web-based graphical user interface of PelcoSarix Enhanced Camera models, specifically targeting the first generation devices. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the camera's web management interface, creating an exploitable condition that allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the affected device. The flaw exists in the camera's handling of user-supplied input parameters that are directly passed to underlying system commands without proper escaping or filtering mechanisms.
This command injection vulnerability operates through the web-based management interface where administrative functions are accessed via HTTP requests. Attackers can manipulate input fields, particularly those related to network configuration, system commands, or diagnostic functions, to inject malicious command sequences that get executed by the camera's underlying operating system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it allows for remote code execution without requiring authentication, enabling attackers to gain full control over the device's operations and potentially use it as a pivot point for further network infiltration.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-7825 extends beyond simple command execution, as it provides attackers with complete administrative control over the affected surveillance cameras. This includes the ability to modify camera settings, access stored video footage, alter network configurations, and potentially use the compromised device for malicious activities such as network reconnaissance or as a command and control node. The vulnerability affects the camera's web-based GUI, which is typically accessible from external networks, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise and industrial environments where surveillance systems are often deployed without proper network segmentation.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-77 and CWE-88 categories, representing command injection flaws that directly enable arbitrary code execution. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a command execution technique under the execution tactic, where attackers leverage the vulnerability to run malicious commands on compromised systems. The risk is amplified by the fact that surveillance cameras are often deployed in critical infrastructure environments where their compromise could lead to significant security breaches, privacy violations, and operational disruptions. Organizations using these devices face potential exposure to advanced persistent threats that could exploit this vulnerability to maintain long-term access to their networks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-7825 should include immediate firmware updates from Pelco to address the command injection flaw, network segmentation to isolate affected devices from critical systems, and implementation of network monitoring to detect suspicious command execution patterns. Additionally, organizations should disable unnecessary web management interfaces, implement strict access controls, and conduct comprehensive network audits to identify other potentially vulnerable devices. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and regular security assessments in embedded systems, particularly in the surveillance and security industry where device compromise can have severe operational and privacy implications.