CVE-2026-78170: Buffer Overflow in UTT HiPER 1200GW

Overview

The CVE-2026-78170 vulnerability is a buffer overflow flaw found in the UTT HiPER 1200GW device up to version 2.5.3-170306. This device is a wireless router commonly used in various networks. The vulnerability affects the strcpy function in the /goform/formConfigFastDirectionW file, which can be exploited remotely.

Understanding the Vulnerability / Threat

Root Cause Analysis

The root cause of this vulnerability is a buffer overflow weakness in the strcpy function of the /goform/formConfigFastDirectionW file. This function does not properly validate the length of the ssid argument, allowing an attacker to overflow the buffer with a specially crafted input. This vulnerability belongs to CWE-119 (Improper Restriction of Operations within the Bounds of a Memory Buffer) and CWE-120 (Buffer Overflow in an API Endpoint).

Attack Surface & Vector

The attack surface of this vulnerability is the network interface of the UTT HiPER 1200GW device. An attacker can exploit this vulnerability remotely without requiring any authentication or specific privileges. The attack vector involves sending a specially crafted request to the /goform/formConfigFastDirectionW endpoint with a manipulated ssid argument.

Exploitation Mechanics — Scenario Walkthrough

Scenario: Compromising a UTT HiPER 1200GW Device 1. Initial Position: An attacker gains access to the network where the UTT HiPER 1200GW device is deployed. The attacker can send requests to the device's network interface. 2. Triggering the Flaw: The attacker crafts a request to the /goform/formConfigFastDirectionW endpoint with a specially designed ssid argument that overflows the buffer in the strcpy function. This can be done using a tool like a web browser or a custom script. 3. What Breaks: When the device processes the request, the strcpy function copies the ssid argument into a buffer without proper length validation. The attacker's crafted input overflows the buffer, potentially allowing arbitrary code execution or a denial of service. 4. Attacker's Prize: Successful exploitation of this vulnerability can grant the attacker remote code execution or control over the device. The attacker can then use this access to modify device settings, extract sensitive information, or use the device as a pivot point for further attacks.

Real-World Impact

The impact of this vulnerability can be significant. An attacker exploiting CVE-2026-78170 can gain unauthorized access to the device, allowing for data theft, lateral movement within the network, or deployment of malware. Given that the exploit has been published, the risk of active exploitation increases.

Detection & Defense

Immediate Mitigations

- Upgrade UTT HiPER 1200GW to version 2.5.3-170307 or later. - Limit access to the device's network interface to trusted IP addresses. - Implement a web application firewall (WAF) to detect and block suspicious requests.

Detection Strategies

- Monitor device logs for unusual requests to the /goform/formConfigFastDirectionW endpoint. - Implement SIEM rules to detect buffer overflow attempts. - Use network intrusion detection systems (NIDS) to identify suspicious traffic patterns.

Long-Term Hardening

- Regularly update and patch devices. - Conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration testing. - Implement a defense-in-depth strategy with multiple layers of security controls.

Key Takeaways

- CVE-2026-78170 is a buffer overflow vulnerability in UTT HiPER 1200GW devices. - The vulnerability can be exploited remotely without authentication. - Exploitation can lead to remote code execution or denial of service. - Immediate mitigation includes upgrading to a patched version and limiting device access. - Detection involves monitoring logs and implementing security controls.

Sources

- National Vulnerability Database (NVD) - CVE-2026-78170