CVE-2018-3894 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A buffer overflow vulnerability in the /cameras/XXXX/clips handler of Samsung SmartThings Hub STH-ETH-250 Firmware version 0.20.17 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code.

Understanding CVE-2018-3894

This CVE involves a critical buffer overflow vulnerability in the Samsung SmartThings Hub.

What is CVE-2018-3894?

This vulnerability arises from a buffer overflow in the video-core's HTTP server of the SmartThings Hub, triggered by an excessively long "startTime" value.

The Impact of CVE-2018-3894

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 9.9, indicating a critical severity level with high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-3894

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from a buffer overflow in the /cameras/XXXX/clips handler of the SmartThings Hub's video-core HTTP server due to a strncpy call overflowing a 52-byte buffer.

Affected Systems and Versions

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

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Complexity: Low
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: None
Scope: Changed
The attacker can exploit the vulnerability by sending a long "startTime" value.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-3894 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply security patches provided by Samsung promptly.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities.
Restrict network access to the SmartThings Hub.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update firmware and software to the latest versions.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing on IoT devices.

Patching and Updates

Samsung may release firmware updates to address the buffer overflow vulnerability.