CVE-2010-4142 in RealWin
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in DATAC RealWin 2.0 Build 6.1.8.10 and earlier allow remote attackers to cause a denial of service (crash) and possibly execute arbitrary code via a long (1) SCPC_INITIALIZE, (2) SCPC_INITIALIZE_RF, or (3) SCPC_TXTEVENT packet. NOTE: it was later reported that 1.06 is also affected by one of these requests.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/20/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2010-4142 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow issue affecting DATAC RealWin 2.0 Build 6.1.8.10 and earlier versions. This flaw exists within the network protocol handling mechanisms of the RealWin software, specifically in the processing of three distinct packet types: SCPC_INITIALIZE, SCPC_INITIALIZE_RF, and SCPC_TXTEVENT. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking when processing incoming network packets, creating opportunities for malicious actors to exploit memory corruption vulnerabilities. The affected software operates in networked environments where it receives and processes structured communication packets from remote sources, making it susceptible to remote code execution and system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves stack-based buffer overflows that occur when the software receives packets containing excessive data in specific fields. These buffer overflows allow attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack, potentially leading to program termination through segmentation faults or more dangerous outcomes such as arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be triggered remotely without requiring authentication, making it a significant threat vector for network-based attacks. The stack corruption can manifest as denial of service conditions causing application crashes or more severe exploitation scenarios where attackers can inject and execute malicious code within the target system's memory space.
The operational impact of CVE-2010-4142 extends beyond simple service disruption to encompass potential system compromise and unauthorized access. When exploited successfully, the vulnerability enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application, which typically runs with elevated permissions. This creates a pathway for attackers to establish persistent access, escalate privileges, or deploy additional malicious payloads within the compromised network environment. The vulnerability affects systems running DATAC RealWin software, which is commonly used in industrial control systems and network monitoring applications, making the potential impact particularly severe in operational technology environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2010-4142 should prioritize immediate software updates and patches from the vendor, as the vulnerability affects multiple packet types within the same software component. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure to potentially malicious traffic, particularly in industrial environments where RealWin software may be deployed. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 stack-based buffer overflow classification and represents a significant concern under ATT&CK framework category T1190 for exploit public-facing applications. Network administrators should consider implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious packet patterns and establish baseline network behavior to detect potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, disabling unnecessary network services and implementing robust input validation at network boundaries can provide defense-in-depth protection against similar vulnerabilities in other software components.