CVE-2018-5924
📋 TL;DR
This vulnerability allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected HP Inkjet printers by sending a maliciously crafted file. The stack buffer overflow can be triggered without authentication, potentially giving attackers full control of the printer. Organizations using vulnerable HP Inkjet printer models are affected.
💻 Affected Systems
- HP Inkjet printers (specific models listed in HP advisory)
📦 What is this software?
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete compromise of printer allowing attackers to install persistent malware, pivot to internal networks, intercept printed documents, or use printer as botnet node.
Likely Case
Printer becomes unresponsive or crashes, potentially disrupting printing operations. Attackers may use compromised printers for internal network reconnaissance.
If Mitigated
Isolated printers with proper network segmentation prevent lateral movement; patched systems remain unaffected.
🎯 Exploit Status
Check Point Research demonstrated exploitation via malicious fax transmission. No authentication required.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: Firmware updates specified in HP Security Bulletin c06097712
Vendor Advisory: https://support.hp.com/us-en/document/c06097712
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Visit HP support site. 2. Enter printer model. 3. Download latest firmware. 4. Install via printer web interface or USB. 5. Reboot printer.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Disable Fax Functionality
allTurn off fax capabilities to prevent exploitation via malicious fax transmissions
Network Segmentation
allIsolate printers on separate VLAN with restricted network access
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Disconnect printers from network or place behind firewall with strict inbound rules
- Implement network monitoring for suspicious traffic to printer IPs
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check printer firmware version against HP advisory. Access printer web interface > Settings > System > Firmware.Check Version:
Not applicable - check via printer web interface or control panelVerify Fix Applied:
Confirm firmware version matches or exceeds patched version in HP advisory.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Printer crash logs
- Unusual fax transmission logs
- Firmware update failures
Network Indicators:
- Unexpected network traffic to printer ports
- Fax protocol anomalies
- Outbound connections from printer
SIEM Query:
source_ip=printer AND (event_type=crash OR protocol=fax)🔗 References
- http://www.securityfocus.com/bid/105010
- http://www.securitytracker.com/id/1041415
- https://research.checkpoint.com/sending-fax-back-to-the-dark-ages/
- https://support.hp.com/us-en/document/c06097712
- http://www.securityfocus.com/bid/105010
- http://www.securitytracker.com/id/1041415
- https://research.checkpoint.com/sending-fax-back-to-the-dark-ages/
- https://support.hp.com/us-en/document/c06097712
