CVE-2014-8269 in OPOS Suite
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple stack-based buffer overflows in (1) HWOPOSScale.ocx and (2) HWOPOSSCANNER.ocx in Honeywell OPOS Suite before 1.13.4.15 allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted file that is improperly handled by the Open method.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/19/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-8269 represents a critical security flaw affecting the Honeywell OPOS Suite software components HWOPOSScale.ocx and HWOPOSSCANNER.ocx. This issue stems from improper input validation within the Open method of these ActiveX controls, creating conditions where maliciously crafted files can trigger stack-based buffer overflows. The vulnerability exists in versions prior to 1.13.4.15 of the Honeywell OPOS Suite, making a significant portion of deployed systems susceptible to exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves stack-based buffer overflows that occur when the affected ActiveX controls process specially crafted input files through their Open method. These buffer overflows represent a classic software security flaw where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to write data beyond the allocated memory buffer space. The flaw specifically affects the handling of file input within the OPOS (Open Platform for Office Systems) framework used by Honeywell for point-of-sale and office automation systems. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited remotely, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risk to organizations using Honeywell OPOS Suite components in retail environments, office automation systems, and point-of-sale configurations. The remote code execution capability means that attackers can potentially compromise entire systems without requiring physical access or local user interaction. The impact extends beyond individual system compromise to potential network-wide infiltration, especially in environments where these ActiveX controls are deployed across multiple endpoints. Organizations utilizing legacy Honeywell systems may face challenges in patching due to the age of the affected software components.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a fundamental memory safety issue in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog. This weakness category specifically addresses buffer overflows occurring in stack memory regions, making it particularly susceptible to exploitation through techniques such as stack smashing and return-oriented programming. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under the T1059.007 technique for Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript, as the exploitation typically involves JavaScript-based attacks against ActiveX controls in web browsers or applications that utilize these components. Organizations should consider implementing additional security measures including browser security policies, ActiveX control restrictions, and network segmentation to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of the Honeywell OPOS Suite to version 1.13.4.15 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow conditions. Additionally, organizations should implement strict browser security policies that disable ActiveX controls in web environments where possible, and consider deploying application whitelisting solutions to prevent execution of vulnerable components. Network-based intrusion detection systems should be configured to monitor for suspicious file handling patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security assessments of legacy systems and proper software lifecycle management practices are essential to prevent similar vulnerabilities from arising in the future. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches for industrial control systems and office automation platforms.