CVE-2014-0766 in WebAccess
Summary
by MITRE
An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by copying an overly long NodeName2 argument into a statically sized buffer on the stack to overflow the static stack buffer. An attacker may use this vulnerability to remotely execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/10/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0766 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw discovered in Advantech WebAccess software versions prior to 7.2. This vulnerability exists within the handling of network requests and specifically targets the NodeName2 argument parameter. The flaw allows remote attackers to exploit the system by crafting malicious input that exceeds the allocated buffer space, thereby corrupting adjacent memory locations on the stack. Such buffer overflow conditions are particularly dangerous because they can lead to arbitrary code execution, potentially providing attackers with complete control over the affected system. The 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 variables.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when Advantech WebAccess processes incoming network requests containing the NodeName2 parameter. When an attacker sends a specially crafted request with an excessively long NodeName2 argument, the application fails to properly validate the input length before copying it into a fixed-size stack buffer. This lack of proper input sanitization creates an exploitable condition where the overflow can overwrite return addresses, function pointers, and other critical stack data. The remote nature of this attack means that exploitation can occur without requiring local system access, making it particularly attractive to threat actors seeking to compromise industrial control systems. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices that align with ATT&CK technique T1203, which involves the exploitation of input validation weaknesses in network services.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it specifically targets industrial automation and control systems that rely on Advantech WebAccess for network management and monitoring. These systems often operate in critical infrastructure environments where unauthorized access can lead to significant operational disruptions, safety hazards, or even physical damage to equipment. The vulnerability's presence in industrial control software increases the risk profile substantially, as attackers can potentially manipulate system operations, access sensitive data, or disrupt critical processes. Organizations relying on these systems face potential regulatory compliance issues and increased risk exposure when such vulnerabilities remain unpatched. The attack surface is particularly concerning in environments where industrial networks are not properly segmented from corporate networks, allowing for lateral movement and escalation of privileges.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-0766 require immediate implementation of the vendor-provided security patches and updates to Advantech WebAccess software to version 7.2 or later. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to isolate industrial control systems from general corporate networks, thereby limiting potential attack vectors. Additional protective measures include deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious network traffic patterns, implementing strict input validation at network boundaries, and conducting regular security assessments of industrial control system environments. Network administrators should consider disabling unnecessary network services and ports that may expose vulnerable components to external threats. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches for industrial control systems, as these environments often operate with extended lifecycles and may not receive regular security updates. Organizations should also establish robust incident response procedures that account for the unique challenges of industrial control system security, including potential physical safety implications of system compromise.