CVE-2014-0765 in WebAccess
Summary
by MITRE
To exploit this vulnerability, the attacker sends data from the GotoCmd argument to control. If the value of the argument is overly long, the static stack buffer can be overflowed. This will allow the attacker to execute arbitrary code remotely.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/10/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0765 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw in Advantech WebAccess software versions prior to 7.2. This vulnerability resides within the handling of network requests and specifically targets the GotoCmd argument processing functionality. The flaw occurs when the software receives a malformed GotoCmd argument containing excessive data that exceeds the allocated buffer space on the stack. This type of vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent stack memory locations. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it enables remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability exploits the fundamental flaw in memory management within the Advantech WebAccess application. When processing incoming network requests containing a GotoCmd argument, the software fails to validate the length of the input data against the predetermined buffer size. This allows an attacker to craft a malicious payload with an oversized GotoCmd argument that overflows the stack buffer and potentially overwrites the return address of the calling function. The stack-based nature of the overflow means that the attacker can manipulate the program's execution flow by redirecting control to malicious code injected into the stack. This vulnerability aligns with the ATT&CK framework's technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it allows for arbitrary code execution through the manipulation of command processing functions.
The operational impact of CVE-2014-0765 extends significantly beyond simple remote code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to industrial control systems that rely on Advantech WebAccess for monitoring and control operations. This vulnerability particularly affects environments where industrial automation and control systems are deployed, such as manufacturing plants, power generation facilities, and other critical infrastructure sectors. The remote exploit capability means that attackers can compromise these systems from external networks without requiring physical access, potentially leading to operational disruptions, data manipulation, or complete system compromise. Organizations using affected versions of Advantech WebAccess face significant risk exposure, as the vulnerability can be exploited by threat actors with minimal technical expertise, given the availability of automated exploitation tools and the straightforward nature of the attack vector. The vulnerability's impact is amplified in environments where these systems control critical processes, as successful exploitation could lead to safety hazards, production downtime, and financial losses.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-0765 primarily focus on immediate remediation through software updates and patches provided by Advantech. Organizations should prioritize upgrading to Advantech WebAccess version 7.2 or later, which contains the necessary fixes to address the buffer overflow vulnerability. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit exposure of affected systems to untrusted networks, while firewall rules should be configured to restrict access to the specific ports and protocols used by WebAccess. Additionally, implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous GotoCmd argument patterns and unusual network traffic can provide early warning of exploitation attempts. The implementation of input validation controls and bounds checking within the application code should be enhanced to prevent similar vulnerabilities in future development cycles, aligning with security best practices outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines for industrial control systems. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify and remediate similar weaknesses in the broader industrial network infrastructure.