CVE-2018-5463 in LAquis SCADA
Summary
by MITRE
A structured exception handler overflow vulnerability in Leao Consultoria e Desenvolvimento de Sistemas (LCDS) LTDA ME LAquis SCADA 4.1.0.3391 and earlier may allow code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/23/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-5463 represents a critical structured exception handler overflow in the LAquis SCADA software version 4.1.0.3391 and earlier releases developed by Leao Consultoria e Desenvolvimento de Sistemas LCDS. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of buffer overflow conditions where the structured exception handling mechanism fails to properly validate input data during exception processing, creating opportunities for malicious code injection and arbitrary code execution. The flaw specifically manifests within the software's exception handling routines, which are designed to manage runtime errors and system failures in industrial control systems.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking within the structured exception handler code path. When the application encounters an exception condition, it attempts to process exception information through a buffer that lacks proper size validation mechanisms. This allows an attacker to craft malicious input that exceeds the allocated buffer space, causing a stack overflow that can overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and function pointers. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in SCADA environments where these systems control critical infrastructure, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to industrial processes. This flaw directly maps to CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and represents a classic example of improper input validation in exception handling contexts.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-5463 extends beyond simple code execution capabilities, as it fundamentally undermines the security posture of industrial control systems that rely on LAquis SCADA for monitoring and control operations. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can gain unauthorized access to critical infrastructure systems, potentially leading to operational disruptions, data manipulation, or complete system compromise. The implications are particularly severe in environments such as power grids, water treatment facilities, or manufacturing plants where SCADA systems are essential for maintaining operational integrity. From an attacker perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands on affected systems. The vulnerability also relates to T1070.004 for indicator removal on host, as attackers may attempt to cover their tracks after gaining initial access through this code execution vector.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-5463 should prioritize immediate software updates from LCDS to version 4.1.0.3392 or later, which contain the necessary patches addressing the structured exception handler overflow. Organizations should implement network segmentation to isolate SCADA environments from general corporate networks, reducing attack surface exposure. Additional protective measures include deploying intrusion detection systems specifically configured to monitor for exploitation attempts targeting SCADA systems, implementing strict access controls and authentication mechanisms, and conducting regular security assessments of industrial control system environments. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure coding practices in industrial software development, particularly around exception handling and memory management. Organizations should also establish robust patch management procedures specifically tailored for industrial control systems, considering the unique operational requirements and potential downtime associated with SCADA environments. Given the nature of industrial control systems, emergency response plans should be developed to address potential exploitation scenarios that could impact operational safety and security.