CVE-2024-26548 in Network Camera
Summary
by MITRE • 02/29/2024
An issue in vivotek Network Camera v.FD8166A-VVTK-0204j allows a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code via a crafted payload to the upload_file.cgi component.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/09/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-26548 affects vivotek Network Camera models, specifically the FD8166A-VVTK-0204j firmware version, presenting a critical remote code execution risk through the upload_file.cgi component. This issue represents a significant security flaw that enables attackers to gain unauthorized control over affected devices by uploading malicious payloads. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the camera's file upload functionality, creating an exploitable entry point for remote attackers who can leverage this weakness to execute arbitrary code on the targeted network camera systems. The affected device operates with a web-based interface that exposes the upload_file.cgi endpoint, which processes file uploads without proper security checks, allowing malicious actors to bypass authentication mechanisms and directly execute commands on the underlying operating system. This vulnerability directly maps to CWE-434, which describes insecure file upload vulnerabilities where applications accept files from untrusted sources without proper validation, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through spearphishing attachments, though in this case the attack vector is more direct through the camera's web interface. The exploitation process typically involves crafting a malicious payload that gets uploaded through the vulnerable CGI component, followed by execution of the payload to establish remote code execution capabilities on the device. Network cameras are often deployed in critical infrastructure environments where they serve as surveillance endpoints, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can provide attackers with persistent access to monitored areas and potentially enable further lateral movement within network perimeters. The impact extends beyond simple device compromise, as these cameras often store sensitive video feeds and may be integrated with other security systems, potentially allowing attackers to disrupt surveillance operations or gain access to additional network resources.
The operational implications of this vulnerability are severe for organizations relying on vivotek network cameras for security monitoring and surveillance purposes. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain complete administrative control over the affected cameras, enabling them to modify camera settings, disable security features, capture unauthorized video feeds, or even use the compromised devices as launch points for further attacks against the network. The remote nature of the attack means that threat actors can exploit this vulnerability from anywhere on the internet without requiring physical access to the devices, making it particularly concerning for organizations with distributed camera networks. The lack of proper input validation in the upload_file.cgi component creates a persistent threat vector that remains active as long as the vulnerable firmware version is installed, regardless of network segmentation or other security controls. Organizations may find their surveillance infrastructure compromised without detection, as the malicious code execution can occur silently in the background, potentially going unnoticed for extended periods. This vulnerability also demonstrates the importance of keeping network security equipment updated, as the exploitation typically requires no specialized knowledge beyond crafting a specific payload for the vulnerable component.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-26548 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from vivotek, as the vendor likely released patches addressing this specific vulnerability. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to isolate camera networks from critical systems, ensuring that even if one camera is compromised, attackers cannot easily move laterally through the network. Network monitoring should include detection of unusual file upload activities and traffic patterns associated with the upload_file.cgi endpoint, with intrusion detection systems configured to alert on suspicious payloads. Access controls should be strengthened through the implementation of secure authentication mechanisms, including multi-factor authentication where possible, and the removal of unnecessary web interfaces or services that expose vulnerable components. Network administrators should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of affected vivotek cameras within their infrastructure, and implement network access controls to restrict access to camera management interfaces to authorized personnel only. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing network traffic analysis tools that can detect anomalous behavior associated with code execution attempts, and establish incident response procedures specifically tailored to address compromised surveillance equipment. The vulnerability also underscores the need for regular security audits of networked devices, particularly those with web interfaces that are not regularly updated or monitored for security vulnerabilities.