CVE-2017-16269 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

CVE-2017-16269, assigned by Talos, involves buffer overflow vulnerabilities in Insteon Hub's PubNub message handler, potentially leading to arbitrary data overwrite.

Understanding CVE-2017-16269

What is CVE-2017-16269?

The vulnerability in the PubNub message handler of Insteon Hub allows attackers to trigger a stack-based buffer overflow by sending crafted commands through the PubNub service.

The Impact of CVE-2017-16269

Exploiting this vulnerability requires an authenticated HTTP request, potentially leading to arbitrary data overwrite.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-16269

Vulnerability Description

The specific vulnerability lies in the cmd s_b function at memory address 0x9d01672c, where a buffer overflow occurs due to copying data using the

strcpy

function.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: Insteon
Product: Hub
Affected Version: Not specified

Exploitation Mechanism

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

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor patches or updates promptly.
Restrict network access to vulnerable systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update firmware and software.
Implement network segmentation and access controls.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates to mitigate the risk of exploitation.