CVE-2017-16254 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Insteon Hub 2245-222 - Firmware version 1012 is vulnerable to a buffer overflow through the PubNub message handler, allowing attackers to overwrite data. This CVE has a CVSS base score of 8.5.

Understanding CVE-2017-16254

This CVE involves a buffer overflow vulnerability in the Insteon Hub 2245-222 - Firmware version 1012, which can be exploited through the PubNub message handler.

What is CVE-2017-16254?

A vulnerability in the PubNub message handler of Insteon Hub 2245-222 - Firmware version 1012 allows for a buffer overflow attack by manipulating commands sent via the PubNub service.

The Impact of CVE-2017-16254

CVSS Base Score: 8.5 (High)
Attack Vector: Network
Attack Complexity: High
Privileges Required: Low
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Scope: Changed
User Interaction: None

Technical Details of CVE-2017-16254

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows attackers to trigger a buffer overflow by sending specially crafted commands through the PubNub service, leading to the overwriting of arbitrary data in a stack-based buffer.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Insteon
Version: Insteon Hub 2245-222 - Firmware version 1012

Exploitation Mechanism

Attacker sends an authenticated HTTP request at memory address 0x9d014e4c
The value associated with the "flg" key is copied to a buffer located at $sp+0x270 using the strcpy function
The buffer has a size of 16 bytes, triggering a buffer overflow if longer data is sent

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-16254 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches or updates promptly
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update firmware and software to patch known vulnerabilities
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address weaknesses
Educate users and employees on safe computing practices

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security updates from the vendor
Apply patches as soon as they are released to mitigate the risk of exploitation