A recent security analysis of the OvrC cloud platform revealed 10 vulnerabilities that could allow attackers to remotely execute code on connected IoT devices. These flaws, which were found to affect devices such as cameras, routers, and smart electrical systems, pose significant risks, including unauthorized access, device hijacking, and the ability to disrupt normal operations. The vulnerabilities could be exploited to bypass firewalls, gain unauthorized access to the cloud-based management interface, and even escalate privileges to take control of connected devices. OvrC is used by over 500,000 end-user locations, making the discovery of these vulnerabilities a significant concern.
The vulnerabilities impact both OvrC Pro and OvrC Connect, with fixes for eight of them having been released in May 2023 and the remaining two fixed in November 2024. Many of these flaws stem from issues such as weak identifiers, authentication bypasses, failed input validation, and the use of hardcoded credentials. Some vulnerabilities allow attackers to impersonate devices, claim unclaimed devices, and upload malicious firmware to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The most severe of these flaws have been rated with CVSS v4 scores of 9.2, highlighting the critical nature of the risks posed.
Claroty researcher Uri Katz, who conducted the analysis, stressed the importance of securing cloud services and the connections between devices as more of these systems are being connected to the internet. He noted that attackers could exploit these vulnerabilities to compromise critical infrastructure such as smart power supplies, business routers, and home automation systems. With cloud management becoming increasingly common for IoT devices, Katz emphasized that manufacturers and service providers must improve their security practices to protect devices from exploitation.
The disclosure of OvrC’s vulnerabilities follows other security reports that highlight risks in IoT and embedded systems, such as flaws discovered in EmbedThis GoAhead and Johnson Controls’ exacqVision Web Service. These findings underscore the growing concerns over the security of connected devices and the need for enhanced protections against remote attacks. As IoT devices proliferate, the security of cloud-based management platforms becomes crucial to maintaining the integrity of critical systems and preventing widespread exploitation.
