CVE-2012-4707 in CODESYS Gateway-Server
Summary
by MITRE
3S CODESYS Gateway-Server before 2.3.9.27 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via vectors that trigger an out-of-bounds memory access.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/25/2017
The CVE-2012-4707 vulnerability represents a critical memory corruption flaw in the 3S CODESYS Gateway-Server software version 2.3.9.27 and earlier. This vulnerability exists within the server's handling of network requests and specifically targets memory management functions that process incoming data from remote clients. The flaw manifests as an out-of-bounds memory access condition that can be exploited by remote attackers without authentication, making it particularly dangerous in networked environments where the server is exposed to untrusted networks. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions that can lead to arbitrary code execution when attacker-controlled data is processed through memory operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking within the Gateway-Server's data processing routines. When the server receives specially crafted network packets containing malformed data structures, it fails to validate the size or content of incoming buffers before attempting to access memory locations. This allows an attacker to manipulate memory pointers and potentially overwrite critical system memory regions, leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the running service. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires no prior authentication and can be executed remotely, making it suitable for automated exploitation across networked systems. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers exploitation of remote services through memory corruption attacks.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-4707 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within affected networks. Organizations running vulnerable Gateway-Server implementations face significant risk of unauthorized access, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor installation. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers can target systems without requiring physical access or network proximity, making it particularly dangerous in industrial control environments where such servers often operate in unsecured network segments. The affected systems typically include industrial automation and control systems that rely on CODESYS for programming and runtime environments, creating risks for critical infrastructure sectors including manufacturing, energy, and process control facilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2012-4707 primarily focus on immediate software updates and network segmentation measures. Organizations should prioritize upgrading to 3S CODESYS Gateway-Server version 2.3.9.27 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the memory access validation issues. Network administrators should implement firewall rules to restrict access to Gateway-Server ports and services, particularly in environments where the server is exposed to untrusted networks. Additional defensive measures include implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious network activity patterns and conducting regular vulnerability assessments of industrial control systems. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date industrial software components and adheres to security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-82 for industrial control systems security. Organizations should also consider implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts and maintain comprehensive incident response procedures for potential compromise scenarios.