CVE-2014-0783 in CENTUM CS 3000
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow in BKHOdeq.exe in Yokogawa CENTUM CS 3000 R3.09.50 and earlier allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted TCP packet.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/25/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0783 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw within the BKHOdeq.exe component of Yokogawa CENTUM CS 3000 R3.09.50 and earlier versions of their distributed control system. This vulnerability exists within the industrial control system infrastructure that manages critical manufacturing and process control environments, making it particularly concerning for operational technology security. The flaw specifically manifests in the handling of TCP packets, where maliciously crafted network traffic can trigger the buffer overflow condition. The affected system operates within industrial environments where cybersecurity is paramount, as these systems control physical processes and machinery that require continuous and reliable operation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the BKHOdeq.exe application, which processes incoming TCP communications without adequate validation of packet sizes or content. When a remote attacker sends a specially crafted TCP packet that exceeds the allocated buffer space, the excess data overflows into adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting the program's execution stack. This overflow condition creates an opportunity for arbitrary code execution, allowing attackers to gain control over the affected system's operational capabilities. The vulnerability is classified as a stack-based buffer overflow under CWE-121, which specifically addresses conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows data to overwrite adjacent stack memory locations, leading to unpredictable program behavior and potential privilege escalation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution, as it directly threatens the integrity and availability of industrial control systems that manage critical infrastructure processes. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability could potentially manipulate process control parameters, disrupt production operations, or gain unauthorized access to sensitive operational data. The remote nature of the attack means that threat actors do not require physical access to the facility, making the system particularly vulnerable to cyberattacks from external sources. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to remote service attacks and privilege escalation, as it allows for unauthorized system access and potential lateral movement within industrial networks. Organizations relying on Yokogawa CENTUM CS 3000 systems face significant risks, as these control systems often manage processes in critical sectors such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and power generation where system reliability is essential.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate attention from organizations operating affected systems, including applying the vendor-provided security patches and updates released to address the specific buffer overflow condition. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of these critical systems to external threats, while monitoring systems should be enhanced to detect anomalous TCP traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The implementation of network-based intrusion detection systems can help identify and block malicious TCP packets before they reach the vulnerable application. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments of their industrial control system environments to identify other potential vulnerabilities that may exist within the broader operational technology infrastructure. Regular vulnerability scanning and security audits become essential practices for maintaining the security posture of industrial control systems, particularly given the persistent threat landscape targeting critical infrastructure assets.