CVE-2019-9534 in Explorer 710
Summary
by MITRE
The Cobham EXPLORER 710, firmware version 1.07, does not validate its firmware image. Development scripts left in the firmware can be used to upload a custom firmware image that the device runs. This could allow an unauthenticated, local attacker to upload their own firmware that could be used to intercept or modify traffic, spoof or intercept GPS traffic, exfiltrate private data, hide a backdoor, or cause a denial-of-service.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/01/2020
The Cobham EXPLORER 710 is a sophisticated satellite communication device used primarily in aviation and maritime applications where reliable connectivity is critical. This device operates in environments where security is paramount, yet firmware version 1.07 contains a fundamental flaw that undermines its security posture. The vulnerability stems from inadequate firmware validation mechanisms that fail to properly verify the authenticity and integrity of firmware images before installation. This design oversight creates a critical security gap that directly violates security best practices outlined in industry standards such as the CWE-1037 principle of secure firmware update mechanisms.
The technical flaw manifests through the presence of development scripts within the production firmware image that remain accessible and executable. These scripts, which should have been removed or secured during the final production build process, provide a direct pathway for unauthorized firmware modification. The vulnerability represents a classic case of insecure configuration management and insufficient build process hardening. According to ATT&CK framework category T1059.004, this allows for command and control through development tools, while CWE-785 specifically addresses the improper restriction of operations within a recognized security boundary. The device lacks proper cryptographic verification mechanisms and fails to implement secure boot processes that would prevent unauthorized firmware execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized access. An unauthenticated local attacker with physical access to the device can upload custom firmware that fundamentally alters the device's behavior. This capability enables sophisticated attacks including man-in-the-middle traffic interception and modification, GPS spoofing that could compromise navigation systems, and data exfiltration of sensitive communications. The threat actor could also install persistent backdoors that would remain undetected for extended periods, creating a covert channel for ongoing surveillance. Additionally, the device could be rendered completely non-functional through malicious firmware that causes denial-of-service conditions, potentially compromising mission-critical communications in aviation or maritime environments where such failures could have catastrophic consequences.
Mitigation strategies must address both immediate and long-term security requirements. The most critical immediate action involves implementing firmware integrity verification mechanisms and removing or securing development scripts from production builds. Organizations should establish secure firmware update processes that incorporate cryptographic signatures and proper authentication checks. The device should be configured to disable unnecessary development tools and services, following the principle of least privilege. Network segmentation and monitoring should be implemented to detect unauthorized firmware modifications, while regular security assessments should verify the integrity of deployed firmware images. According to NIST SP 800-147 guidelines on firmware security, these measures align with recommended practices for protecting embedded systems from firmware-level attacks, ensuring that the device maintains its intended security posture throughout its operational lifecycle.