CVE-2012-4704 in CODESYS Gateway-Server
Summary
by MITRE
Array index error in 3S CODESYS Gateway-Server before 2.3.9.27 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted packet.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/25/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-4704 represents a critical array index error within the 3S CODESYS Gateway-Server software version 2.3.9.27 and earlier. This flaw exists in the network protocol handling mechanisms of the industrial automation software, specifically in how the system processes incoming packets from remote attackers. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and bounds checking within the packet processing logic, creating a condition where an attacker can manipulate array indices through carefully crafted network traffic. Such array index errors typically fall under the CWE-129 category of Improper Validation of Array Index, which is classified as a common weakness in software development practices that directly leads to memory corruption vulnerabilities.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a remote attacker sends a specially crafted packet to the vulnerable Gateway-Server instance. The malformed packet triggers the array index error during packet parsing, potentially allowing the attacker to overwrite critical memory locations or execute arbitrary code on the target system. This type of vulnerability represents a classic buffer over-read or out-of-bounds access condition that can be leveraged for privilege escalation or complete system compromise. The attack vector is particularly concerning in industrial environments where CODESYS Gateway-Server is commonly deployed for automation and control systems, as these systems often operate in critical infrastructure scenarios where unauthorized code execution could lead to operational disruptions or safety hazards.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can enable attackers to gain persistent access to industrial control systems that may be responsible for managing critical manufacturing processes, power grid operations, or other essential services. The remote nature of the attack means that adversaries can exploit this vulnerability from outside the network perimeter, potentially bypassing traditional network security controls. This vulnerability aligns with several tactics described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1059.007 technique for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as successful exploitation would likely involve executing malicious commands through the compromised server. Organizations using this software in operational technology environments face significant risk, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, energy, and critical infrastructure where these systems are fundamental to operations.
The remediation strategy for CVE-2012-4704 requires immediate deployment of the vendor-provided patch or upgrade to version 2.3.9.27 or later of the 3S CODESYS Gateway-Server software. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure of these systems to untrusted networks, as recommended in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework for industrial control systems. Additional defensive measures include network monitoring for unusual packet patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, implementing intrusion detection systems specifically configured to detect malformed packets targeting this vulnerability, and conducting comprehensive vulnerability assessments of industrial control system environments to identify other potentially affected systems. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of secure coding practices and input validation in industrial software development, particularly for systems that handle network communications in critical infrastructure environments.