CVE-2018-3832 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

In June 2018, a critical vulnerability was identified in the firmware update process of Insteon Hub, specifically affecting devices running firmware version 1013. This vulnerability could be exploited by attackers to upload unsigned firmware images to the device, potentially leading to unauthorized access.

Understanding CVE-2018-3832

This CVE entry highlights a security flaw in the Insteon Hub's firmware update mechanism, allowing malicious actors to manipulate MPFS binaries to gain access to hidden resources and upload unauthorized firmware.

What is CVE-2018-3832?

The vulnerability in the Insteon Hub firmware update process enables attackers to upload modified MPFS binaries, granting access to hidden resources that facilitate the uploading of unsigned firmware images to the device.

The Impact of CVE-2018-3832

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 9.9, indicating a critical severity level. It poses high risks to confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low privileges required for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-3832

This section delves into the specific technical aspects of the CVE, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The HTTP server in Insteon Hub allows the uploading of arbitrary MPFS binaries, which can be manipulated by attackers to access hidden resources and upload unauthorized firmware images.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Insteon
Vendor: Insteon
Versions Affected: Insteon Hub 2245-222 - Firmware version 1013

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker can upload an MPFS binary using the '/mpfsupload' HTTP form and subsequently upload the firmware through a POST request to 'firmware.htm'.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-3832 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable remote access to the Insteon Hub if not required for operation.
Regularly monitor for any unauthorized firmware updates or changes.
Implement network segmentation to limit the impact of potential attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Keep firmware and software up to date to patch known vulnerabilities.
Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address weaknesses.
Educate users on secure practices and the risks associated with unauthorized firmware updates.

Patching and Updates

Check for firmware updates from Insteon to address and mitigate the vulnerability.
Apply patches promptly to ensure the security of the Insteon Hub.