CVE-2012-1830 in KingView
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in WellinTech KingView 6.53 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted packet to TCP port 555.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/05/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-1830 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within WellinTech KingView version 6.53, a popular industrial automation and SCADA software platform. This vulnerability exists within the network communication handling mechanisms of the software, specifically when processing incoming data packets on TCP port 555. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and memory management practices that fail to properly bounds-check data received from network connections, creating a condition where maliciously crafted data can overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. The affected software operates in industrial environments where it serves as a critical component for monitoring and controlling industrial processes, making it an attractive target for adversaries seeking to compromise operational technology infrastructure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a remote attack vector where an attacker sends a specially crafted packet to the target system's TCP port 555, which is the default port used by KingView for communication purposes. When the vulnerable software processes this malformed packet, the buffer overflow condition triggers, allowing an attacker to overwrite the stack memory and potentially redirect program execution flow. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a fundamental memory safety issue that has been a persistent concern in software development practices. The attack can result in arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the affected application, potentially enabling full system compromise or denial of service conditions that could disrupt critical industrial operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-1830 extends beyond simple exploitation to encompass significant risks for industrial control systems and critical infrastructure environments where WellinTech KingView is deployed. Organizations utilizing this software in manufacturing plants, power generation facilities, or other industrial settings face potential disruption of their operational processes, data integrity compromise, and possible physical security risks if attackers can manipulate the controlled systems. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries do not require physical access to the target environment, making it particularly dangerous for distributed industrial networks. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which describes exploitation of remote services, and represents a common vector for attackers targeting industrial control systems through the use of network-based exploits that can be executed from anywhere on the internet.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action including applying the vendor-provided security patches or updates that address the buffer overflow condition in the KingView software. Organizations should implement network segmentation and access controls to restrict access to TCP port 555, particularly in production environments where the software operates. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual traffic patterns or malformed packets that may indicate exploitation attempts. The implementation of intrusion detection systems and regular security assessments can help identify potential exploitation activities before they result in successful compromises. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of their industrial control system environments to identify other potentially vulnerable applications and systems that may share similar security weaknesses, ensuring comprehensive protection against similar attack vectors. System administrators should also consider implementing network access control lists and firewall rules to limit exposure of the vulnerable service to only trusted networks and authorized users.