CVE-2018-3863 : Security Advisory and Response

CVE-2018-3863, published on July 26, 2018, details a critical vulnerability affecting Samsung SmartThings Hub STH-ETH-250 devices with firmware version 0.20.17. The flaw in the video-core process allows for a stack buffer overflow when processing user-controlled JSON payloads.

Understanding CVE-2018-3863

This CVE entry highlights a critical security issue in Samsung SmartThings Hub STH-ETH-250 devices with specific firmware versions.

What is CVE-2018-3863?

The vulnerability in the video-core process of the SmartThings Hub allows attackers to trigger a stack buffer overflow by manipulating JSON payloads, potentially leading to unauthorized access and control of the device.

The Impact of CVE-2018-3863

The vulnerability poses a critical threat with a CVSS base score of 9.9, indicating high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts. Attackers can exploit this flaw remotely without user interaction, making it a severe security concern.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-3863

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

Vulnerability Description

The flaw arises from the incorrect extraction of fields from user-controlled JSON payloads, leading to a stack buffer overflow during a strcpy operation on a 40-byte destination buffer.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: SmartThings Hub STH-ETH-250
Vendor: Samsung
Firmware Version: 0.20.17

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: Low
Scope: Changed
Exploitation involves sending an HTTP request with a manipulated "user" value to trigger the buffer overflow.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2018-3863, immediate steps and long-term security practices are crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the firmware to a patched version provided by Samsung.
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 security patches for all connected devices.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities.
Educate users on safe practices to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Samsung may release firmware updates to address the vulnerability. Stay informed about security bulletins and apply patches promptly.