CVE-2017-12704 in WebAccess
Summary
by MITRE
A heap-based buffer overflow issue was discovered in Advantech WebAccess versions prior to V8.2_20170817. Researchers have identified multiple vulnerabilities where there is a lack of proper validation of the length of user-supplied data prior to copying it to the heap-based buffer, which could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code under the context of the process.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/12/2019
The heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-12704 affects Advantech WebAccess software versions prior to V8.2_20170817, representing a critical security flaw that exposes the system to remote code execution attacks. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the software's data handling processes, specifically when processing user-supplied information that gets copied into heap-based memory buffers. The flaw exists in the application's memory management routines where insufficient bounds checking allows maliciously crafted input to overwrite adjacent memory locations, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the running process.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, heap-based buffer overflow, which occurs when a program writes data beyond the boundaries of a heap-allocated buffer. In the context of Advantech WebAccess, attackers can exploit this weakness by sending specially crafted data packets or commands that trigger the vulnerable code path. The lack of proper length validation before buffer operations creates an opportunity for attackers to manipulate memory layout and potentially overwrite critical function pointers or return addresses, enabling code injection attacks. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in industrial control systems where WebAccess is commonly deployed, as it could compromise the integrity of critical infrastructure monitoring and control processes.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-12704 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it represents a significant threat to industrial cybersecurity frameworks and operational technology environments. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability could gain unauthorized access to industrial control systems, potentially disrupting critical manufacturing processes, altering operational parameters, or even causing physical damage to equipment. The vulnerability's presence in WebAccess, which is widely used in SCADA and industrial automation environments, creates a substantial risk to sectors including energy, water treatment, and manufacturing. Organizations implementing these systems face potential compromise of their operational technology infrastructure, with implications for both cybersecurity and physical security.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should encompass multiple layers of defense including immediate software patching to the latest V8.2_20170817 release or higher, which addresses the buffer overflow through proper input validation and bounds checking mechanisms. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of vulnerable WebAccess instances to untrusted networks, while monitoring systems should be configured to detect anomalous data patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The remediation approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as attackers may attempt to execute malicious code through compromised WebAccess instances, making comprehensive network monitoring and endpoint protection essential components of the defense strategy.