CVE-2012-0245 in PickMaster 3
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in RobNetScanHost.exe in ABB Robot Communications Runtime before 5.14.02, as used in ABB Interlink Module, IRC5 OPC Server, PC SDK, PickMaster 3 and 5, RobView 5, RobotStudio, WebWare SDK, and WebWare Server, allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted (1) 0xA or (2) 0xE Netscan packet.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/26/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-0245 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw in RobNetScanHost.exe component of ABB Robot Communications Runtime software. This vulnerability affects multiple ABB products including Interlink Module, IRC5 OPC Server, PC SDK, PickMaster 3 and 5, RobView 5, RobotStudio, WebWare SDK, and WebWare Server. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation within the network packet processing functionality, specifically when handling crafted Netscan packets with specific byte values of 0xA or 0xE. The vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a fundamental memory corruption vulnerability that can lead to arbitrary code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the RobNetScanHost.exe process receives network packets containing maliciously crafted data with byte values 0xA or 0xE. These specific byte values trigger a buffer overflow condition in the stack memory allocation where the application fails to properly validate the length of incoming data before copying it into fixed-size buffers. When the buffer overflow occurs, it overwrites adjacent memory locations including return addresses and function pointers, allowing remote attackers to manipulate the program execution flow. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, making it a prime target for automated exploitation tools.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-0245 is severe and far-reaching across industrial automation environments. Remote code execution capabilities mean that attackers can gain complete control over affected systems, potentially leading to unauthorized access to critical manufacturing processes, data exfiltration, and system compromise. The vulnerability affects industrial control systems and robotics platforms that are often deployed in critical infrastructure environments where system availability and security are paramount. The attack surface is extensive given that the vulnerability spans multiple ABB products and modules, increasing the potential for successful exploitation in various industrial settings. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers legitimate user privileges to gain access to systems, and T1059, which involves execution through command and scripting interpreters.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-0245 should include immediate patching of affected ABB Robot Communications Runtime installations to version 5.14.02 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of affected systems to untrusted networks, particularly by blocking incoming traffic on ports used by RobNetScanHost.exe. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by running affected applications with minimal required permissions and implementing network monitoring to detect suspicious packet patterns. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing intrusion detection systems that can identify and alert on the specific packet formats associated with this vulnerability. Regular vulnerability assessments and security audits of industrial control systems are essential to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in legacy industrial software components. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches in industrial environments where legacy systems may not receive regular security updates, and highlights the need for robust security practices in critical infrastructure protection.