CVE-2014-2343 in SCADA Data Gateway
Summary
by MITRE
Triangle MicroWorks SCADA Data Gateway before 3.00.0635 allows physically proximate attackers to cause a denial of service (excessive data processing) via a crafted DNP request over a serial line.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-2343 affects Triangle MicroWorks SCADA Data Gateway versions prior to 3.00.0635, representing a critical security flaw that enables denial of service attacks through excessive data processing. This issue specifically targets the serial line communication interface and exploits a weakness in how the system processes DNP (Distributed Network Protocol) requests. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be triggered by attackers who are physically proximate to the affected system, eliminating the need for complex network-based attack vectors.
The technical flaw manifests when a maliciously crafted DNP request is transmitted over the serial line to the vulnerable SCADA gateway. The system fails to properly validate or limit the processing of incoming data, leading to excessive resource consumption and ultimately causing a denial of service condition. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-400, which addresses excessive resource consumption, and represents a classic example of a resource exhaustion attack that can be executed through protocol manipulation. The DNP protocol is commonly used in industrial control systems for communication between master and slave devices, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in SCADA environments where system availability is critical.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption, as it can severely compromise the reliability of industrial control systems that depend on SCADA gateways for data collection and communication. When exploited, the excessive data processing consumes CPU and memory resources to the point where legitimate operations cannot proceed normally, potentially leading to cascading failures in critical infrastructure systems. In environments where SCADA systems control essential services such as power grids, water treatment facilities, or manufacturing processes, this vulnerability could result in significant operational disruptions and potential safety hazards. The attack requires only physical proximity to the serial line interface, making it particularly challenging to defend against in environments where physical security measures may be inadequate.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-2343 should focus on immediate software updates to version 3.00.0635 or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the excessive data processing vulnerability. Organizations should also implement network segmentation and access controls to limit physical access to serial line interfaces, while establishing monitoring protocols to detect unusual data processing patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499.001, which covers network denial of service attacks, and represents a significant concern for industrial control system security. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and resource limiting mechanisms in serial communication protocols can help prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in other components of the SCADA infrastructure.