CVE-2024-22769 in DVR HVR-8781
Summary
by MITRE • 01/23/2024
Improper Input Validation in Hitron Systems DVR HVR-8781 1.03~4.02 allows an attacker to cause network attack in case of using defalut admin ID/PW.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/31/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-22769 represents a critical security flaw within Hitron Systems DVR HVR-8781 firmware versions ranging from 1.03 to 4.02. This issue stems from improper input validation mechanisms that fail to adequately sanitize user inputs, creating potential pathways for malicious actors to exploit the device's network interfaces. The vulnerability specifically manifests when default administrative credentials remain unchanged, providing attackers with a straightforward entry point into the system's management interface. This weakness directly aligns with CWE-20, which describes improper input validation as a fundamental security flaw that allows attackers to inject malicious data into applications or systems. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that many users fail to change default administrative credentials, leaving devices in their out-of-the-box state and vulnerable to exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows attackers to leverage the default administrative ID and password combination to establish unauthorized access to the DVR system. Once authenticated, the attacker gains full administrative privileges over the device, enabling them to manipulate network configurations, access stored video recordings, modify system settings, and potentially use the device as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. The improper input validation aspect means that the system does not adequately verify or sanitize inputs received through various network interfaces, including web-based management portals, telnet, or other remote access methods. This lack of input sanitization creates opportunities for command injection attacks, where malicious inputs can be executed within the device's operating system context, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical expertise, making it particularly dangerous in environments where security awareness is lacking.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-22769 extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it fundamentally undermines the security posture of organizations relying on Hitron DVR systems for surveillance and monitoring purposes. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to conduct persistent surveillance operations, modify or delete critical video evidence, or use the compromised device as a launching point for attacks against other networked systems. The default credentials issue creates a widespread risk across multiple deployments, as many organizations fail to implement proper credential management procedures. This vulnerability directly maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1078 for valid accounts and T1566 for phishing attacks, as attackers can exploit the default credentials to establish persistence. Network-based attacks can result in significant data breaches, privacy violations, and potential regulatory compliance issues for organizations handling sensitive surveillance data.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary recommendation involves implementing mandatory credential changes during initial device setup, with strong password policies enforced through system configuration. Organizations should disable default administrative accounts when not actively needed and implement network segmentation to limit access to the DVR systems. Regular firmware updates should be applied to ensure all known vulnerabilities are addressed, while network monitoring tools should be deployed to detect unusual access patterns or authentication attempts. The implementation of multi-factor authentication for administrative access, even when available, provides additional protection layers. Security awareness training for system administrators is essential to prevent the continued use of default credentials, and automated vulnerability scanning should be implemented to identify devices running affected firmware versions. Additionally, network access controls should be configured to restrict remote administrative access to trusted IP addresses only, reducing the attack surface available to potential adversaries.