CVE-2018-17901 in LAquis SCADA
Summary
by MITRE
LAquis SCADA Versions 4.1.0.3870 and prior, when processing project files the application fails to sanitize user input prior to performing write operations on a stack object, which may allow an attacker to execute code under the current process.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/29/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-17901 affects LAquis SCADA versions 4.1.0.3870 and earlier, representing a critical code execution flaw within industrial control systems. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization during project file processing, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the application's handling of user-supplied data. The flaw specifically manifests when the software performs write operations on stack objects without proper validation of input parameters, creating an environment where attacker-controlled data can influence memory operations.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-787, which addresses out-of-bounds write operations. The vulnerability occurs during the processing of project files, suggesting that an attacker could craft malicious project files containing specially formatted input that, when processed by the vulnerable application, leads to memory corruption. This memory corruption enables arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the currently running process, potentially allowing attackers to gain full control over the SCADA system's operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond typical application security concerns due to the industrial control environment in which LAquis SCADA operates. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could potentially disrupt critical infrastructure operations, manipulate industrial processes, or gain unauthorized access to sensitive operational data. The stack-based nature of the vulnerability means that memory corruption could lead to unpredictable system behavior, including application crashes or complete system compromise. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in SCADA environments where system reliability and security are paramount, as the consequences of exploitation could affect public safety, environmental protection, or economic stability.
The attack vector for this vulnerability involves an attacker constructing malicious project files that contain input designed to trigger the unsanitized write operations on stack objects. Once the vulnerable application processes these crafted files, the attacker's malicious code can be executed within the context of the running process. This exploitation method requires the attacker to have the ability to influence the project file processing workflow, which could occur through direct access to the system or through social engineering tactics that convince users to open malicious files. The vulnerability does not require elevated privileges for exploitation, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users may have access to project file creation or modification capabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-17901 should focus on immediate remediation through official vendor patches and updates. Organizations should implement strict file validation procedures, ensuring that all project files are validated and sanitized before processing by the SCADA application. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened to limit potential attack vectors, while monitoring systems should be deployed to detect unusual file processing activities. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regular security assessments can help reduce the overall risk exposure. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1059.007, which covers scripting languages, indicates that the exploitation may involve code injection techniques that could be detected through behavioral monitoring and anomaly detection systems. Regular patch management processes should be established to ensure timely application of vendor security updates, as this vulnerability represents a known weakness that has been addressed in subsequent releases of the software.