Critical RCE Vulnerability Found in NUUO NVRmini2 (CVE-2011-5325)

2024-12-18

Security researchers have uncovered a critical Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability in the NUUO NVRmini2, a network video recorder (NVR) device. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2011-5325, poses a serious risk to NVRmini2 users as it allows attackers to gain complete control over the device.

The Vulnerability:

The vulnerability stems from two weaknesses within the NVRmini2.

1. Unauthenticated User Upload: The `handle_import_user.php` script lacks proper authentication, allowing any attacker to upload an encrypted TAR archive.
2. BusyBox Flaw: The NVRmini2 utilizes an outdated version of BusyBox, a software suite commonly used in embedded systems. This version contains a directory traversal vulnerability (CVE-2011-5325) that can be exploited to overwrite files outside the intended location.

Exploiting the Vulnerability:

By combining these vulnerabilities, an attacker can upload a specially crafted TAR archive containing malicious code. This code, when extracted using the vulnerable BusyBox `tar` command, can exploit the directory traversal flaw and overwrite critical system files. In the worst-case scenario, this allows the attacker to gain complete control of the NVRmini2, potentially compromising sensitive recordings and granting unauthorized access to your network.

What Undercode Says:

This vulnerability highlights the importance of keeping firmware updated on all devices, particularly those connected to the internet. Network Video Recorders (NVRs) play a crucial role in security systems, and any vulnerabilities within these devices can have severe consequences. Here’s a breakdown of the situation:

Severity: High. This RCE vulnerability allows attackers to take complete control of the NVRmini2, potentially compromising sensitive data and disrupting security operations.
Affected Devices: All NUUO NVRmini2 devices running firmware version 3.11 or earlier are susceptible.
Recommendations: NUUO users should immediately update their NVRmini2 devices to the latest available firmware. If no patch is available, consider taking the device offline until a fix is released. Additionally, it’s recommended to implement strong passwords and network segmentation to minimize the potential impact of an exploit.

Additional Considerations:

While the specific exploit for this vulnerability might not be readily available, the technical details are publicly known. This makes it more likely for attackers to develop working exploits in the future.
It’s crucial to stay vigilant and monitor for any suspicious activity on your network, especially after news of a vulnerability emerges.
Consider employing vulnerability scanning tools to proactively identify and address potential weaknesses in your network devices.

By following these recommendations and staying informed about emerging threats, you can significantly reduce the risk of your NVRmini2 being exploited.