CVE-2016-5796 in PM Designer
Summary
by MITRE
An issue was discovered in Fatek Automation PM Designer V3 Version 2.1.2.2, and Automation FV Designer Version 1.2.8.0. Sending additional valid packets could allow the attacker to cause a crash or to execute arbitrary code, because of Improper Restriction of Operations within the Bounds of a Memory Buffer.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/14/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-5796 represents a critical buffer overflow condition affecting Fatek Automation PM Designer V3 Version 2.1.2.2 and Automation FV Designer Version 1.2.8.0 software applications. This flaw resides in the improper restriction of operations within memory buffer boundaries, creating a scenario where malicious input can exceed allocated memory limits and potentially lead to system compromise. The affected software products are industrial automation tools used for programming and configuring automation devices, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for operational technology environments. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of packet data received by the applications, allowing attackers to craft specially formatted input that can trigger memory corruption. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-121 category of Stack-based Buffer Overflow, where the buffer overflow occurs in stack memory, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter. The specific nature of the flaw suggests that the applications fail to properly validate the length of incoming data packets before processing them, creating an opportunity for attackers to manipulate memory layout and execution flow. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in industrial control systems where these automation tools are commonly deployed, as it could potentially disrupt critical manufacturing processes or enable unauthorized access to industrial networks.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves sending additional valid packets that exceed the expected buffer size, causing memory corruption that can result in either application crash or arbitrary code execution. When the software receives packets with oversized data, it fails to properly bounds-check the input before copying it into fixed-size memory buffers. This allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially corrupting program execution flow or injecting malicious code into the running process. The buffer overflow occurs during packet processing operations where the applications do not validate the size of received data against predefined buffer limits. Attackers can leverage this condition to either cause denial of service through application crashes or to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the affected application. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and inadequate memory management, which are fundamental security principles that should be implemented in all software applications handling external data input. The attack surface is particularly significant because these automation tools are often used in critical infrastructure environments where system reliability and security are paramount.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-5796 extends beyond simple system disruption to potentially compromise entire industrial control networks. Organizations using Fatek automation software in manufacturing, process control, or other critical infrastructure environments face significant risks from this vulnerability. The ability to execute arbitrary code remotely through packet manipulation means that attackers could gain persistent access to industrial systems, potentially leading to production disruptions, data manipulation, or even physical safety hazards in industrial environments. The vulnerability affects software that is commonly used in SCADA systems and industrial automation configurations, making it attractive to attackers targeting critical infrastructure sectors. Network-based attacks could originate from external networks or compromised internal systems, creating multiple attack vectors for exploitation. The consequences could include unauthorized access to process control systems, modification of automation parameters, or complete system compromise. Organizations may face regulatory compliance issues if these vulnerabilities are exploited, particularly in sectors governed by standards such as NIST SP 800-82 for industrial control systems or IEC 62443 for industrial automation security. The vulnerability also demonstrates the need for proper software security testing and code review practices, as similar issues could exist in other industrial automation software products.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2016-5796 should focus on immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The most effective immediate solution involves applying vendor patches or updates when available, as the software vendors would have addressed the buffer overflow conditions in their updated releases. Organizations should implement network segmentation to limit access to these automation tools and reduce the attack surface available to potential attackers. Network monitoring and intrusion detection systems should be configured to detect unusual packet patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Input validation controls should be enhanced at network boundaries to filter out oversized packets before they reach the vulnerable applications. System administrators should regularly review access controls and implement principle of least privilege for automation tool usage. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting to prevent unauthorized execution of potentially vulnerable software. Regular vulnerability assessments and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar issues in other industrial automation systems. The remediation process should include comprehensive testing of updated software in controlled environments before deployment to production systems. Security awareness training for personnel working with industrial automation tools should emphasize the importance of software updates and secure configuration practices. Organizations should also establish incident response procedures specifically tailored for industrial control systems to ensure rapid response to exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices and the need for regular security assessments of industrial control system software components to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.