CVE-2019-14699 in N-Series Camera
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered on MicroDigital N-series cameras with firmware through 6400.0.8.5. An attacker can exploit OS Command Injection in the filename parameter for remote code execution as root. This occurs in the Mainproc executable file, which can be run from the HTTPD web server.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/21/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-14699 represents a critical operating system command injection flaw within MicroDigital N-series security cameras running firmware versions up to 6400.0.8.5. This weakness resides in the web server implementation of the device's HTTPD service, specifically within the Mainproc executable file that processes incoming requests. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization of user-supplied data, particularly in the filename parameter that is processed during file operations. Attackers can exploit this flaw by crafting malicious payloads in the filename parameter that get executed as system commands with root privileges, effectively compromising the entire device. The issue is particularly concerning because it allows remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it accessible to any attacker with network access to the device's web interface.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the improper handling of user input within the Mainproc executable, which serves as the core component for processing HTTP requests from the embedded web server. When a user submits a filename parameter through the web interface, the system fails to properly sanitize or validate the input before incorporating it into system commands. This creates a direct path for command injection attacks where malicious input can be interpreted and executed as shell commands by the underlying operating system. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-77 command injection flaw, which is a well-documented weakness in software applications that execute operating system commands based on user input. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it operates over HTTP, allowing exploitation from remote locations without physical access to the device. The web server component that hosts this vulnerability is designed to process user requests, but it lacks proper input validation mechanisms that would prevent malicious command sequences from being executed.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides complete control over the affected devices. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute arbitrary commands with root privileges, potentially leading to complete device compromise, data exfiltration, or use of the device as a pivot point for attacking other systems within the network. The vulnerability affects all MicroDigital N-series cameras running the specified firmware versions, creating a significant attack surface for malicious actors targeting security infrastructure. Organizations deploying these devices face risks including unauthorized surveillance access, potential data breaches, and the possibility of these compromised devices being used for botnet activities or as staging points for further network infiltration. The remote nature of the exploit means that attackers can target these devices from anywhere on the internet, making traditional network segmentation and firewall rules insufficient protection against this particular threat. This vulnerability also violates fundamental security principles outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, specifically addressing the need for secure coding practices and proper input validation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-14699 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from MicroDigital to address the command injection vulnerability. Organizations should implement network segmentation to isolate these devices from critical infrastructure and apply network access controls to restrict access to the web interface. The implementation of web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially affected devices within their network infrastructure. The remediation process should include disabling unnecessary web services, implementing strong authentication mechanisms, and regularly monitoring device logs for suspicious activity. Security teams should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect unusual command execution patterns or unauthorized access attempts. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.001 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell) and T1078 (Valid Accounts) as attackers may leverage the compromised device for lateral movement. Organizations should also review their incident response procedures to ensure preparedness for potential exploitation of this type of vulnerability, as the remote code execution capability makes it particularly dangerous for security operations.