CVE-2015-3977 in IMT25 Magnetic Flow DTM
Summary
by MITRE
Buffer overflow in Schneider Electric IMT25 Magnetic Flow DTM before 1.500.004 for the HART Protocol allows remote authenticated users to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial of service (memory corruption) via a crafted HART reply.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/20/2018
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-3977 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within Schneider Electric's IMT25 Magnetic Flow DTM device firmware, specifically affecting versions prior to 1.500.004 that utilize the HART Protocol for communication. This device operates within industrial control systems and process automation environments where reliable operation is paramount for safety and operational continuity. The flaw exists in the handling of HART protocol responses, which are essential for configuring and monitoring flow measurement devices in industrial settings. The HART protocol, defined by the Foundation for Field andr Communication, enables communication between smart field devices and control systems, making it a critical component in industrial automation infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking within the firmware's HART protocol parsing routine. When the IMT25 device receives a crafted HART reply message, the firmware fails to validate the length of incoming data before copying it into fixed-size buffers. This classic buffer overflow condition allows an authenticated attacker who can communicate with the device to manipulate memory layout by overwriting adjacent memory locations. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires only authentication to the device, which can often be obtained through legitimate administrative access or by exploiting weaker credential management practices. According to CWE-121, this represents a classic stack-based buffer overflow where insufficient bounds checking leads to memory corruption. The attack vector operates over the HART communication protocol, which typically uses serial communication methods such as HART 4-20mA signals, making the attack surface accessible through network-connected devices or direct physical access.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass potential system compromise and operational disruption within industrial environments. Remote code execution capabilities enable attackers to gain full control of the device, potentially allowing them to manipulate flow measurements, disable safety systems, or redirect operational parameters that could lead to hazardous conditions. The denial of service component of this vulnerability can result in complete device unavailability, which is particularly concerning in process control applications where continuous operation is required. In industrial settings, such disruptions can cascade into larger operational failures, affecting production lines, safety systems, and overall plant operations. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, where attackers could execute arbitrary code through the compromised device. Organizations implementing the MITRE ATT&CK framework for cybersecurity would identify this as a critical threat requiring immediate remediation in their industrial control system security posture.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-3977 should prioritize immediate firmware updates to version 1.500.004 or later, which contain patches addressing the buffer overflow condition. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit who can authenticate to these devices, reducing the attack surface. Regular security assessments of industrial control systems should include vulnerability scanning for similar buffer overflow conditions in other legacy devices. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous HART protocol communications that might indicate exploitation attempts. According to NIST SP 800-82 guidelines for industrial control systems, organizations should maintain updated inventories of all connected devices and implement change management processes for firmware updates. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of secure coding practices and proper input validation, particularly in embedded systems where memory constraints often lead to inadequate bounds checking. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems specifically designed for industrial protocols to identify potential exploitation attempts before they can cause operational damage.