CVE-2011-2957 in FactoryTalk Diagnostics Viewer
Summary
by MITRE
Unspecified vulnerability in Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk Diagnostics Viewer before V2.30.00 (CPR9 SR3) allows local users to execute arbitrary code via a crafted FactoryTalk Diagnostics Viewer (.ftd) configuration file, which triggers memory corruption.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/10/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-2957 represents a critical memory corruption flaw within Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk Diagnostics Viewer software, specifically affecting versions prior to V2.30.00. This issue resides in the software's handling of .ftd configuration files, which are used to store diagnostic settings and parameters for industrial automation systems. The vulnerability enables local attackers to execute arbitrary code through the manipulation of these configuration files, potentially compromising the integrity of industrial control systems that rely on this diagnostics tool. The flaw demonstrates a classic buffer overflow or memory corruption vulnerability that can be exploited by an attacker with local system access, making it particularly dangerous in industrial environments where such systems control critical infrastructure.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and memory handling within the FactoryTalk Diagnostics Viewer application. When processing a specially crafted .ftd file, the software fails to properly validate the file structure and content, leading to memory corruption that can be leveraged to execute malicious code. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and more broadly aligns with CWE-125, indicating an out-of-bounds read that can lead to memory corruption. The exploitation mechanism typically involves creating a malicious configuration file that, when loaded by the vulnerable application, triggers an overflow condition in the application's memory management routines, allowing an attacker to overwrite critical memory locations and redirect execution flow.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends significantly within industrial control system environments where FactoryTalk Diagnostics Viewer is deployed. Local privilege escalation through arbitrary code execution can lead to complete system compromise, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate industrial processes, access sensitive operational data, or disrupt critical manufacturing operations. This vulnerability is particularly concerning in environments following the industrial control system security framework, as it can be leveraged to gain unauthorized access to systems that are typically isolated from general network access. The attack vector requires local system access, which means that if an attacker has already gained access to a system through other means, they can use this vulnerability to escalate privileges and maintain persistence within the industrial network. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation, representing the techniques that attackers would employ to leverage such a flaw in operational technology environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-2957 focus primarily on software updates and access controls. The most effective remediation involves upgrading to Rockwell Automation FactoryTalk Diagnostics Viewer version V2.30.00 or later, which includes patches addressing the memory corruption vulnerability. Organizations should implement strict access controls to limit local system access and ensure that only authorized personnel can manipulate configuration files. Network segmentation and the principle of least privilege should be enforced to minimize the potential impact of exploitation. Additionally, regular security assessments of industrial control systems should include vulnerability scanning for outdated software components, particularly those used in operational technology environments. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file modifications or execution patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining up-to-date industrial software in critical infrastructure environments, where the consequences of exploitation can extend beyond traditional information technology concerns into physical system safety and operational continuity.