CVE-2021-44388 in RLC-410W
Summary
by MITRE • 01/29/2022
A denial of service vulnerability exists in the cgiserver.cgi JSON command parser functionality of reolink RLC-410W v3.0.0.136_20121102. A specially-crafted HTTP request can lead to a reboot. Login param is not object. An attacker can send an HTTP request to trigger this vulnerability.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/02/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-44388 represents a critical denial of service flaw within the cgiserver.cgi component of Reolink RLC-410W security cameras running firmware version v3.0.0.136_20121102. This issue resides in the JSON command parser functionality that processes HTTP requests sent to the device, creating a pathway for unauthorized disruption of service. The vulnerability manifests when the system receives a specially crafted HTTP request that exploits improper input validation in the login parameter parsing mechanism. According to the Common Weakness Enumeration framework, this vulnerability maps to CWE-20, which describes improper input validation, and specifically relates to CWE-707, indicating improper neutralization of special elements used in a command. The attack vector operates through the web interface of the security camera, where an unauthenticated attacker can send malicious HTTP requests that cause the device to reboot automatically. This reboot condition effectively renders the surveillance camera inoperable for the duration of the service interruption, creating a significant operational impact for users relying on continuous monitoring capabilities. The vulnerability stems from the device's failure to properly validate the structure of the login parameter within the JSON payload, allowing attackers to craft requests where the login parameter is not properly formatted as an object, thereby triggering an unexpected system behavior. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1499.004, which describes network denial of service attacks, specifically targeting the availability of network services through device reboot conditions. The operational impact extends beyond simple service disruption as it compromises the security infrastructure of the affected environment, potentially leaving monitored areas unprotected during the device reboot period. Organizations utilizing Reolink RLC-410W cameras face the risk of sustained service interruptions that could go unnoticed if monitoring systems are not properly configured to detect device reboots. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical skill and can be accomplished through automated tools, making it particularly dangerous for widespread deployment. The JSON parsing error occurs during the command processing phase, where the system attempts to handle the login parameter without proper validation of its expected data structure. This failure in input sanitization creates a condition where malformed JSON input causes the device's internal command processor to enter an error state, ultimately leading to system restart. The device's architecture does not implement adequate error handling or input validation mechanisms to prevent malformed JSON structures from causing system-level disruptions. The firmware version v3.0.0.136_20121102 specifically contains this vulnerability, indicating that the manufacturer has not yet addressed the issue in their patch releases, leaving users exposed to potential attacks. Security researchers have noted that this type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in IoT devices due to their typically limited security features and the critical nature of their operational requirements. The vulnerability's impact is compounded by the fact that it can be triggered remotely without requiring authentication, making it a prime target for automated scanning and exploitation tools. Mitigation strategies should include immediate firmware updates from Reolink if available, network segmentation to limit access to affected devices, and implementation of intrusion detection systems to monitor for unusual reboot patterns. Additionally, organizations should consider disabling unnecessary web services and implementing proper access controls to reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of robust input validation in embedded systems and highlights the need for manufacturers to implement comprehensive security testing before device deployment. Without proper mitigation measures, this vulnerability can lead to extended periods of security coverage gaps, potentially allowing physical security breaches to occur undetected during device reboot cycles.