Description Preview
Homeputer CL Studio for HomeMatic 4.0 Release 160808 and earlier versions contain a critical security vulnerability where authentication credentials (username and password) are transmitted in cleartext between server and client instances. This insecure communication method allows malicious actors to intercept and capture sensitive authentication information through man-in-the-middle attacks, potentially leading to unauthorized access to HomeMatic systems and connected smart home devices.
Overview
This vulnerability (CVE-2017-17691) affects Homeputer CL Studio for HomeMatic 4.0 Release 160808 and earlier versions. The software fails to implement proper encryption for credential transmission, instead sending usernames and passwords in plaintext. This represents a significant security risk as attackers positioned on the network path between client and server can easily capture these credentials without needing to decrypt any traffic. The vulnerability is classified as CWE-522 (Insufficiently Protected Credentials) and poses a serious risk to smart home installations using this software, as compromised credentials could allow attackers to control connected devices and access sensitive information.
Remediation
To address this vulnerability, system administrators and users should:
- Update to the latest version of Homeputer CL Studio if a patched version is available
- If updates are unavailable, implement network-level encryption such as a VPN when accessing the system remotely
- Segment networks to isolate HomeMatic systems from untrusted networks
- Use strong, unique passwords for HomeMatic accounts
- Monitor system logs for suspicious login attempts or unauthorized access
- Consider implementing additional authentication mechanisms where possible
- Contact the vendor for specific security patches or recommendations
References
- Compass Security Advisory: https://www.compass-security.com/fileadmin/Datein/Research/Advisories/CSNC-2017-031_homematic.txt
- MITRE CWE-522: https://cwe.mitre.org/data/definitions/522.html
- NIST National Vulnerability Database: https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2017-17691
Industry ExposureMost to leastThis section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.
- Accommodation & Food ServicesAccommodation & Food Services
- Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation ServicesAdministrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
- Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & HuntingAgriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
- Arts, Entertainment & RecreationArts, Entertainment & Recreation
- ConstructionConstruction
- Educational ServicesEducational Services
- Finance and InsuranceFinance and Insurance
- Health Care & Social AssistanceHealth Care & Social Assistance
- InformationInformation
- Management of Companies & EnterprisesManagement of Companies & Enterprises
- ManufacturingManufacturing
- MiningMining
- Other Services (except Public Administration)Other Services (except Public Administration)
- Professional, Scientific, & Technical ServicesProfessional, Scientific, & Technical Services
- Public AdministrationPublic Administration
- Real Estate Rental & LeasingReal Estate Rental & Leasing
- Retail TradeRetail Trade
- Transportation & WarehousingTransportation & Warehousing
- UtilitiesUtilities
- Wholesale TradeWholesale Trade
