CVE-2011-4870 in Wonderware InBatch
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple buffer overflows in the (1) GUIControls, (2) BatchObjSrv, and (3) BatchSecCtrl ActiveX controls in Invensys Wonderware InBatch 9.0 and 9.0 SP1, and InBatch 8.1 SP1, 9.0 SP2, and 9.5 Server and Runtime Clients, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a long string in a property value, a different issue than CVE-2011-3141.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/09/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-4870 represents a critical security flaw affecting Invensys Wonderware InBatch software versions 8.1 SP1 through 9.5 across both server and runtime client implementations. This vulnerability manifests through three distinct ActiveX controls: GUIControls, BatchObjSrv, and BatchSecCtrl, each susceptible to buffer overflow conditions that can be exploited remotely by malicious actors. The flaw specifically occurs when processing property values containing excessively long strings, creating opportunities for arbitrary code execution within the targeted systems. These ActiveX controls operate within industrial automation environments where security is paramount for maintaining operational integrity and preventing unauthorized access to critical infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the three identified ActiveX controls. When these components receive property values containing strings exceeding predetermined buffer limits, memory corruption occurs that can be leveraged by attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This memory corruption typically manifests through stack-based buffer overflows that can be manipulated to redirect program execution flow, ultimately enabling attackers to inject and execute malicious code within the context of the affected application. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-121, which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-122, which covers heap-based buffer overflows, though the specific implementation appears to target stack-based exploitation vectors. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that these controls operate within industrial control systems where traditional security measures may be insufficient.
The operational impact of CVE-2011-4870 extends beyond simple remote code execution to encompass potential compromise of entire industrial control systems. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could gain unauthorized access to critical process control environments, potentially disrupting production operations or causing physical damage to industrial equipment. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers need not have physical access to the target systems, making these vulnerabilities particularly dangerous in operational technology environments where network segmentation may be limited. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and availability of industrial processes, as demonstrated by the ATT&CK framework's T1203 technique for Exploitation for Client Execution, which specifically addresses the execution of malicious code through client-side vulnerabilities. The affected systems include both server and runtime client components, increasing the potential attack surface significantly.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-4870 should prioritize immediate patch deployment from Invensys Wonderware, as the vendor has likely released security updates addressing these specific buffer overflow conditions. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to systems running these ActiveX controls, particularly within industrial control networks where such vulnerabilities could have catastrophic consequences. Disabling ActiveX controls in web browsers where possible, and implementing strict input validation for property values, can provide additional protective layers against exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual network traffic patterns or unauthorized access attempts that might indicate exploitation of these vulnerabilities. The implementation of principle of least privilege access controls and regular security assessments of industrial control system components aligns with industry best practices for managing such critical vulnerabilities. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems specifically configured to identify exploitation attempts targeting known ActiveX control vulnerabilities, as these systems provide crucial early warning capabilities in industrial environments where traditional endpoint protection may be insufficient.