CVE-2018-3879 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A vulnerability in the credentials handler of the video-core's HTTP server in Samsung SmartThings Hub STH-ETH-250 devices with firmware version 0.20.17 allows for JSON injection leading to SQL injection.

Understanding CVE-2018-3879

This CVE involves a security issue in Samsung SmartThings Hub STH-ETH-250 devices with a specific firmware version.

What is CVE-2018-3879?

CVE-2018-3879 is a vulnerability in the credentials handler of the video-core's HTTP server in Samsung SmartThings Hub STH-ETH-250 devices with firmware version 0.20.17. It enables attackers to perform JSON injection, which can lead to SQL injection in the video-core database.

The Impact of CVE-2018-3879

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 8.8, indicating a high severity level with significant impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-3879

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The video-core process in Samsung SmartThings Hub STH-ETH-250 devices fails to properly handle user-controlled JSON payloads, allowing attackers to inject malicious JSON and subsequently execute a SQL injection attack.

Affected Systems and Versions

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

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending a sequence of HTTP requests to the affected devices, triggering the JSON injection and SQL injection.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-3879 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the firmware of Samsung SmartThings Hub STH-ETH-250 devices to a patched version that addresses the vulnerability.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious HTTP requests.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement network segmentation to isolate critical devices from potential attacks.
Regularly audit and review the security configurations of IoT devices to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Samsung to mitigate the CVE-2018-3879 vulnerability and ensure the ongoing security of the SmartThings Hub STH-ETH-250 devices.