CVE-2018-7514 in CX-One
Summary
by MITRE
Parsing malformed project files in Omron CX-One versions 4.42 and prior, including the following applications: CX-FLnet versions 1.00 and prior, CX-Protocol versions 1.992 and prior, CX-Programmer versions 9.65 and prior, CX-Server versions 5.0.22 and prior, Network Configurator versions 3.63 and prior, and Switch Box Utility versions 1.68 and prior, may cause a stack-based buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/25/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-7514 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw affecting Omron CX-One software suite and its constituent applications. This issue manifests when the software processes malformed project files, creating a condition where insufficient input validation allows malicious data to overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack. The affected versions encompass multiple components within the Omron automation ecosystem including CX-FLnet, CX-Protocol, CX-Programmer, CX-Server, Network Configurator, and Switch Box Utility, all of which share the same underlying parsing mechanism. The vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking during project file interpretation, where the software fails to properly validate the size and structure of incoming data before attempting to store it in fixed-size buffers. This flaw is categorized under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a high-severity vulnerability in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog. The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple software instability, as it creates potential entry points for attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. When exploited, the buffer overflow could allow threat actors to overwrite return addresses, function pointers, or other critical stack data, potentially enabling privilege escalation or complete system compromise. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that these applications are commonly used in industrial control systems and manufacturing environments where system reliability and security are paramount. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 Exploitation for Client Execution, as it represents a classic buffer overflow exploit that can be leveraged to execute malicious payloads within the context of the affected applications. Organizations utilizing Omron CX-One software in operational technology environments face significant risk from this vulnerability, as it could potentially be exploited to disrupt industrial processes or gain unauthorized access to critical infrastructure. The nature of the flaw suggests that any user with privileges to open or import project files could be vulnerable, making this particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users have access to automation software. The vulnerability's impact is further amplified by the widespread use of Omron automation products in critical infrastructure sectors including manufacturing, energy, and process control systems where the consequences of system compromise could be severe. Remediation efforts must focus on updating to patched versions of the software, implementing strict input validation measures, and establishing secure file handling procedures to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability. Organizations should also consider network segmentation and access controls to limit potential attack vectors and reduce the overall risk exposure associated with this and similar vulnerabilities in industrial control systems.