CVE-2017-16277 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

CVE-2017-16277 pertains to multiple buffer overflow vulnerabilities in the Insteon Hub firmware version 1012, specifically within its PubNub message handler for the "cc" channel. These vulnerabilities can be exploited by crafting and sending commands via the PubNub service, potentially leading to a stack-based buffer overflow that overwrites arbitrary data.

Understanding CVE-2017-16277

This CVE identifies critical vulnerabilities in the Insteon Hub firmware version 1012 that can be exploited through authenticated HTTP requests.

What is CVE-2017-16277?

The CVE-2017-16277 vulnerability involves multiple exploitable buffer overflow vulnerabilities in the Insteon Hub firmware version 1012, specifically within its PubNub message handler for the "cc" channel.

The Impact of CVE-2017-16277

The exploitation of these vulnerabilities can result in a stack-based buffer overflow that allows attackers to overwrite arbitrary data, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control of the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-16277

This section provides detailed technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability occurs in the "cmd sn_grp" function at memory address 0x9d017658, where the value associated with the "gcmd" key is copied to a buffer located at

$sp+0x270

using the

strcpy

function. The buffer can only accommodate 16 bytes, and exceeding this capacity triggers a buffer overflow.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: Insteon
Product: Hub
Affected Version: Firmware version 1012

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

Protecting systems from CVE-2017-16277 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Insteon Hub firmware to a non-vulnerable version if available.
Implement network segmentation to limit access to vulnerable devices.
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 potential weaknesses.
Educate users on secure practices to prevent exploitation of vulnerabilities.
Implement strong access controls and authentication mechanisms.
Consider using intrusion detection and prevention systems to detect and block malicious activities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by Insteon for the Hub to address the identified vulnerabilities.