CVE-2024-10771 in InspectorP61x
Summary
by MITRE • 12/06/2024
Due to missing input validation during one step of the firmware update process, the product is vulnerable to remote code execution. With network access and the user level ”Service”, an attacker can execute arbitrary system commands in the root user’s contexts.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/06/2024
This vulnerability represents a critical remote code execution flaw in firmware update processes that directly enables privilege escalation from user level "Service" to root context. The weakness stems from inadequate input validation during a specific phase of the firmware update workflow, creating an exploitable entry point that bypasses normal security boundaries. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows attackers with minimal network access and relatively low-privilege credentials to achieve full system compromise without requiring physical access or elevated privileges.
The technical implementation of this flaw demonstrates a classic input validation failure that aligns with CWE-20, which specifically addresses improper input validation in software systems. The vulnerability operates through a chain of privilege escalation where the initial access with "Service" level credentials enables exploitation of the firmware update mechanism, ultimately allowing command execution in the root context. This represents a significant deviation from standard security models where firmware update processes should maintain strict validation controls to prevent arbitrary code injection.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability exposes systems to remote exploitation without requiring complex attack vectors or physical presence. The attack surface is broadened by the network accessibility requirement, meaning that adversaries can potentially exploit this flaw from external networks. The impact extends beyond simple command execution to full system compromise, as the root context execution enables complete control over system resources, file access, and potential lateral movement within network environments.
The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under privilege escalation techniques, specifically leveraging software vulnerabilities to gain elevated privileges. The attack chain typically involves initial reconnaissance to identify vulnerable systems, followed by exploitation of the firmware update process to achieve root access. This vulnerability also aligns with lateral movement tactics as compromised systems can serve as launch points for further network infiltration. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation and monitoring for unusual firmware update activities as part of their defensive strategies.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate firmware updates from vendors, network access controls to limit firmware update endpoints, and enhanced monitoring for unauthorized firmware modification attempts. The implementation of secure boot mechanisms and code signing verification for firmware updates provides additional layers of protection. Regular security assessments of update processes and input validation controls help identify similar vulnerabilities across the system architecture. Organizations should also implement network monitoring to detect anomalous firmware update patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, as well as maintain comprehensive incident response procedures for rapid containment of compromised systems.