CVE-2026-57877: GeoVision GV-LPC Format String RCE Vulnerability

Technical summary

CVE-2026-57877 is an unauthenticated format string vulnerability (CWE-134) in the vlsvr login service component of affected GeoVision devices. The vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of externally controlled input used in log message formatting on the authentication path. By transmitting crafted login payloads, a remote network attacker can manipulate format string specifiers to read or write arbitrary memory locations, potentially achieving information disclosure, denial of service, or code execution depending on the underlying memory layout and protections.

Business impact

Organizations deploying GeoVision LPC series recorders for surveillance infrastructure face operational and data security risks. Successful exploitation could allow attackers to crash the recording devices, access stored footage or system configuration data, or potentially establish persistence. In critical infrastructure or enterprise security environments, loss of video surveillance availability or compromise of recorded content could violate compliance requirements and impair incident response capabilities.

Affected systems

GeoVision GV-LPC2011 and GV-LPC2211 running firmware version 1.12 and earlier are confirmed vulnerable. Organizations should verify their device models and firmware versions through the device web interface or management console. The vulnerability affects both PoE and standard powered variants of these network video recorders.

Exploitability

The vulnerability is network-accessible without authentication, making it easily reachable by remote attackers. The attack requires only network connectivity to the device's login service port—no valid credentials, user interaction, or special conditions are necessary. Format string exploitation techniques are well-known and readily applicable, though successful attacks may vary depending on specific memory protections and device architecture. The LOW attack complexity (per CVSS vector) indicates straightforward exploitation.

Remediation

Upgrade affected devices to a patched firmware version released by GeoVision. Verify patch availability through GeoVision's support portal or contact your equipment provider for authorized updates. Until patches are deployed, restrict network access to the vlsvr login service using firewall rules or VLANs, allowing connections only from trusted management networks. Disable remote login functionality if not operationally required.

Patch guidance

Check GeoVision's official security advisories for firmware updates addressing CVE-2026-57877. Ensure you obtain patches from authorized distribution channels. Test patches in a lab environment before production deployment to verify compatibility with your recording configurations and integrations. Firmware updates typically require device restart; schedule updates during maintenance windows to minimize surveillance downtime.

Detection guidance

Monitor network logs for unusual connection attempts to the vlsvr service port on GeoVision devices. Look for malformed or suspicious login payloads containing format string indicators (%, x, n specifiers) in authentication traffic. Enable verbose logging on the devices if available and review log files for crashes, memory errors, or unexpected service restarts coinciding with authentication attempts. Network-based IDS/IPS signatures for format string attacks may also detect exploitation attempts.

Why prioritize this

This vulnerability scores 8.6 (HIGH) due to its network accessibility, lack of authentication barriers, and direct impact on system availability and confidentiality. While not currently listed on CISA's Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog, the simplicity of format string exploitation and the widespread use of GeoVision equipment in surveillance networks warrant rapid patching. Organizations relying on these devices for security monitoring should prioritize remediation within their standard patch cycles.

Risk score, explained

CVSS 3.1 score of 8.6 reflects high severity: Network vector (AV:N) makes it remotely reachable; no authentication required (PR:N) eliminates a major barrier; low attack complexity (AC:L) indicates straightforward exploitation; limited confidentiality impact (C:L) from information disclosure; limited integrity impact (I:L) from potential memory corruption; and high availability impact (A:H) from denial of service or device crash. The combination of unauthenticated access and denial-of-service potential elevates the score into the HIGH range.

Frequently asked questions