External risk intelligence

Tiptel IP 286 Firmware Directory Traversal Vulnerability

CVE advisorySeverity: CRITICAL (CVSS 9.8)

CVE-2024-33109

The vulnerability exists in the web management interface of VoIP phones. While these devices are typically deployed within internal corporate or home networks, they are occasionally exposed to the public internet for remote management or remote work scenarios, making internet reachability possible but not the standard deployment pattern.

Path Traversal

Ergophone Tiptel Ip 286 Firmware

2.61.13.10 and earlier

Halo Surface Signal: 3 out of 5 — possibly public-facing.

External exposure likelihood

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

This advisory details a critical vulnerability in certain IP phone firmware. A directory traversal flaw in the web interface allows unauthorized overwriting of any file on the device through the ringtone upload feature. This could potentially compromise the integrity and functionality of affected devices.

  • A web flaw lets anyone overwrite phone files.
  • Critical severity impacts device integrity and function.
  • Confirm if this specific phone model is in use.

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by accessing the device's web interface, which is exposed to the network. By uploading a specially crafted ringtone file through the web interface, an attacker can manipulate file paths to overwrite arbitrary files on the phone. This could potentially lead to a denial-of-service condition or allow for further malicious actions on the device.

  • Accessible via network interface.
  • Overwrite arbitrary files using ringtone upload.
  • Risk of denial-of-service or compromise.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

Directory traversal in the Tiptel IP 286's web interface could allow an unauthenticated attacker to overwrite arbitrary files on the device by uploading a malicious ringtone. This could lead to a denial of service or potentially compromise the device's integrity, depending on which files are overwritten.

  • Phone's file system could be affected.
  • Malicious ringtone upload via web interface.
  • Device compromise or denial of service.

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

Directory traversal in the Tiptel IP 286's web interface allows overwriting arbitrary files via the Ringtone upload function. Owners of these devices must first identify their exact locations, confirm network reachability, and assess business criticality to prioritize remediation. Coordination with the vendor or implementing temporary risk-reduction measures may be necessary.

  • Device owners should confirm location and reachability.
  • Verify business criticality and impact on operations.
  • Plan vendor-coordinated remediation or mitigation.

Supplementary metadata

Validate whether this threat affects your internet-facing exposure.

Halo Threat Intelligence helps prioritize remediation with Halo Surface Signal and H/A/L/O context. Start exposure validation with a free external attack surface trial.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Tiptel IP 286 and why does it have firmware?

The Tiptel IP 286 is a Voice over IP (VoIP) desk phone used for office communication. Like many modern business phones, it runs internal firmware—a specialized operating system—to manage call routing, user interfaces, and network connectivity. This software includes a web-based management portal that allows administrators to configure device settings, manage phonebooks, and upload custom audio files, such as ringtones, directly through a web browser.

What does CVE-2024-33109 mean by directory traversal?

Directory traversal, classified as CWE-22, occurs when a web application fails to properly sanitize user input, allowing an attacker to navigate outside the intended folder. In this case, the phone's web interface does not adequately check the file paths provided during the ringtone upload process. This allows a user to specify a path that escapes the designated directory, granting them the ability to overwrite critical system files instead of simply saving a new ringtone.

How does an attacker trigger this vulnerability?

An attacker triggers this by interacting with the phone's web-based ringtone upload function. By providing a specially crafted file path instead of a standard audio file, they trick the system into overwriting sensitive files stored elsewhere on the device. This does not happen through standard phone usage, such as making calls or navigating the menu, but specifically requires access to the web management interface to upload a file.

Do I need to worry if my phone is not on the internet?

According to Halo Surface Signal, these devices are typically found on internal networks, which limits the number of people who can reach the web interface. However, if your phone is configured to be accessible from the public internet for remote management or off-site work, it faces a higher risk of being reached by unauthorized parties. Assess your network configuration to determine if the web management interface is reachable beyond your local perimeter.

What should I do first to address this security flaw?

Start by identifying all Tiptel IP 286 and Yealink SIP-T28P devices in your environment to see which units are running the affected firmware versions. Once identified, verify if the web management interface is necessary for your daily operations. If it is not required, disable or restrict access to this interface at the network level as a primary protective measure while you coordinate with the vendor for official updates.

References