CVE-2018-18989 in CX-One CX-Programmer
Summary
by MITRE
In CX-One Versions 4.42 and prior (CX-Programmer Versions 9.66 and prior and CX-Server Versions 5.0.23 and prior), when processing project files, the application fails to check if it is referencing freed memory. An attacker could use a specially crafted project file to exploit and execute code under the privileges of the application.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/17/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-18989 affects the CX-One software suite including CX-Programmer and CX-Server components, specifically versions 4.42 and earlier. This represents a critical memory safety issue that stems from improper memory management during project file processing operations. The flaw exists within the application's handling of project files, where the software fails to validate memory references before accessing them, creating a potential avenue for arbitrary code execution.
This vulnerability manifests as a use-after-free condition, a well-documented class of memory corruption flaws that occur when a program continues to reference memory after it has been freed by the system. The technical implementation of this flaw allows an attacker to craft a malicious project file that, when loaded by the vulnerable application, triggers the execution of arbitrary code with the privileges of the running process. The root cause lies in the absence of proper memory validation checks within the application's project file parsing logic, which is classified as a CWE-416 Use After Free vulnerability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it provides attackers with a means to execute malicious code on systems running vulnerable versions of CX-One software. Since the application typically runs with elevated privileges during project file operations, successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise. The attack surface is limited to users who open or process specially crafted project files, making social engineering or supply chain compromise potential attack vectors. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as exploitation could enable attackers to execute commands through the compromised application.
The affected systems include industrial automation environments where CX-One software is deployed for programming and configuration of automation devices. Organizations using these legacy versions face heightened risk due to the difficulty of patching industrial control systems and the potential for persistent access. Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate version updates to patched releases, implementing application whitelisting to restrict execution of unauthorized project files, and network segmentation to limit lateral movement. Additionally, security awareness training for operators handling project files and regular vulnerability assessments of industrial control systems should be implemented. Organizations should also consider deploying runtime application protection solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of memory safety practices in industrial software and underscores the need for robust security testing of critical infrastructure applications.