CVE-2018-9157 in M1033-W
Summary
by MITRE
** DISPUTED ** An issue was discovered on AXIS M1033-W (IP camera) Firmware version 5.40.5.1 devices. The upload web page doesn't verify the file type, and an attacker can upload a webshell by making a fileUpload.shtml request for a custom .shtml file, which is interpreted by the Apache HTTP Server mod_include module with "<!--#exec cmd=" support. The file needs to include a specific string to meet the internal system architecture. After the webshell upload, an attacker can use the webshell to perform remote code execution such as running a system command (ls, ping, cat /etc/passwd, etc.). NOTE: the vendor reportedly indicates that this is an intended feature or functionality.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/05/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-9157 affects AXIS M1033-W IP camera devices running firmware version 5.40.5.1, representing a critical security flaw in web application file upload validation mechanisms. This issue stems from insufficient input validation on the device's web interface, specifically within the fileUpload.shtml endpoint that processes file uploads without proper MIME type verification or file extension filtering. The vulnerability exists in the device's web server configuration where the Apache HTTP Server mod_include module is enabled with "<!--#exec cmd=" directive support, creating an environment where maliciously crafted files can be executed as server-side includes. The flaw demonstrates a classic lack of proper security controls in web application development, aligning with CWE-434 which addresses insecure file upload vulnerabilities where applications accept files without proper validation.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft a custom .shtml file that contains specific string patterns to bypass internal system architecture checks, then upload this file through the vulnerable fileUpload.shtml endpoint. Once uploaded, the webshell can be executed because the Apache server processes the file through mod_include functionality, allowing command execution through the <!--#exec cmd=" directive. This creates a remote code execution capability where attackers can execute arbitrary system commands such as ls, ping, or cat /etc/passwd, effectively gaining full control over the device's operating system. The vulnerability represents a significant security risk as it transforms a simple file upload functionality into a full system compromise mechanism, with the attack surface extending beyond mere data theft to include complete system control.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses severe risks to network security infrastructure, particularly in environments where IP cameras serve as part of critical surveillance systems. The device's default configuration with mod_include enabled for command execution creates a persistent backdoor that can be exploited by attackers to maintain long-term access to the network. The vendor's assertion that this represents intended functionality is concerning as it suggests a design decision that prioritizes convenience over security, potentially violating security best practices established in frameworks like NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, demonstrating how a seemingly benign feature can be weaponized for remote code execution and lateral movement within networks. The impact extends beyond the individual device to potentially compromise entire surveillance networks, as these cameras often operate in sensitive environments with restricted network access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on network segmentation and access control measures, including restricting direct internet access to IP cameras and implementing proper firewall rules to limit communication to authorized systems only. Network administrators should disable unnecessary Apache modules such as mod_include when not required for legitimate operations, and implement strict file upload validation including MIME type checking, file extension filtering, and content analysis. The device firmware should be updated to versions that address this vulnerability, though the vendor's position on this being intended functionality suggests that a complete firmware revision may be necessary. Additional protective measures include implementing network monitoring for unusual file upload activities, conducting regular security assessments of networked devices, and establishing incident response procedures specifically for device compromise scenarios. Organizations should also consider deploying network-based intrusion detection systems that can identify and block malicious file upload attempts targeting similar vulnerabilities in networked devices.