CVE-2016-0868 in MicroLogix 1100
Summary
by MITRE
Stack-based buffer overflow on Rockwell Automation Allen-Bradley MicroLogix 1100 devices A through 15.000 and B before 15.002 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via a crafted web request.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/06/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-0868 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw affecting Rockwell Automation Allen-Bradley MicroLogix 1100 programmable logic controllers across specific firmware versions. This vulnerability resides within the web server component of these industrial control devices, creating a remote code execution vector that could be exploited by attackers without requiring physical access or authentication credentials. The affected firmware versions span from A through 15.000 and B before 15.002, indicating a significant portion of the installed base remains vulnerable. The flaw manifests when the device processes a specially crafted web request, allowing an attacker to overwrite memory on the device's stack and potentially execute malicious code with the privileges of the web server process.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations. In the context of industrial control systems, this represents a particularly dangerous weakness because the affected devices operate in critical infrastructure environments where unauthorized code execution could lead to significant operational disruptions or safety hazards. The stack-based nature of the overflow means that attackers can manipulate return addresses and function pointers stored on the stack, potentially redirecting execution flow to malicious code injected through the web request payload. This vulnerability specifically targets the web interface functionality of the MicroLogix 1100 devices, which are commonly used in manufacturing and process control applications where they manage critical equipment operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-0868 extends beyond simple remote code execution, as these devices typically operate in environments where they control physical processes, machinery, and safety systems. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially manipulate industrial processes, cause equipment malfunctions, or create conditions that compromise safety systems. The remote nature of the attack means that threat actors could target these devices from external networks, making them particularly attractive targets for industrial espionage or sabotage operations. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to techniques involving remote code execution and privilege escalation, with potential for lateral movement within industrial networks once initial access is achieved. The impact is particularly severe in environments where these controllers are directly connected to operational technology networks without proper network segmentation.
Organizations must implement immediate mitigation strategies to address this vulnerability, beginning with firmware updates from Rockwell Automation to the latest available versions that contain patches for this specific buffer overflow condition. Network segmentation should be implemented to isolate these industrial control devices from general corporate networks, reducing the attack surface available to external threat actors. Additional protective measures include implementing network access controls, disabling unnecessary web services where possible, and conducting thorough network monitoring to detect anomalous web traffic patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Security teams should also consider deploying industrial network security solutions that can detect and block malicious web requests targeting these specific vulnerabilities. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining current firmware versions in industrial environments, as the affected devices represent a substantial portion of industrial control systems that require ongoing security maintenance to protect against evolving threats in the industrial cybersecurity landscape.