CVE-2018-7519 in CX-Supervisor
Summary
by MITRE
In Omron CX-Supervisor Versions 3.30 and prior, parsing malformed project files may cause a heap-based buffer overflow.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/05/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-7519 affects Omron CX-Supervisor software versions 3.30 and earlier, presenting a critical heap-based buffer overflow condition during the parsing of project files. This flaw resides within the software's handling of malformed input data, specifically when processing project files that contain oversized or improperly structured data elements. The buffer overflow occurs in the memory management routines responsible for parsing project file formats, where insufficient bounds checking allows attacker-controlled data to overwrite adjacent memory regions. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms that fail to properly sanitize or limit the size of data elements during the parsing process, creating opportunities for arbitrary code execution or application crashes. This issue directly impacts the integrity and availability of industrial automation environments where CX-Supervisor is deployed for programming and managing Omron programmable logic controllers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the software's project file parser failing to validate the length of data structures within project files before attempting to copy or process this information into fixed-size memory buffers. When a malformed project file containing oversized data elements is loaded, the parsing routine executes without proper bounds checking, leading to memory corruption that can result in stack smashing or heap corruption. The flaw manifests as a classic heap-based buffer overflow where the program writes beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, potentially overwriting critical program data or return addresses. This type of vulnerability is categorized under CWE-121 Heap-based Buffer Overflow, which represents a fundamental memory safety issue in C/C++ applications where heap memory allocation does not properly account for data size limitations. The vulnerability demonstrates poor defensive programming practices and highlights the importance of implementing proper input validation and memory bounds checking in industrial control system software.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-7519 extends beyond simple application instability to potentially compromise entire industrial control systems where CX-Supervisor operates. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain arbitrary code execution privileges within the context of the CX-Supervisor application, potentially leading to complete system compromise or disruption of critical manufacturing processes. The vulnerability affects environments where project files might be received from untrusted sources or where users might inadvertently load corrupted project files, creating attack vectors through social engineering or supply chain compromise. Industrial environments using Omron automation systems face heightened risk as these applications typically operate in closed networks but may still be exposed to insider threats or compromised external connections. The vulnerability's impact is particularly concerning in operational technology environments where system availability and integrity are paramount, as exploitation could lead to production downtime, data corruption, or unauthorized access to industrial control processes.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-7519 should focus on immediate software updates and implementation of input validation controls. Organizations should upgrade to Omron CX-Supervisor versions 3.31 or later where the buffer overflow vulnerability has been addressed through proper bounds checking and input sanitization. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of CX-Supervisor systems to untrusted networks or users who might provide malicious project files. Input validation measures should include implementing strict file format validation, size limitations for project file elements, and automatic scanning for malformed data structures before processing. Additionally, security awareness training for operators and engineers can help prevent accidental loading of compromised project files. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution, as exploitation could lead to arbitrary code execution, and T1203 for exploitation for privilege escalation, particularly in environments where elevated privileges are required for project file modifications. Regular security assessments and penetration testing of industrial control systems should include evaluation of third-party software vulnerabilities like this one to ensure comprehensive protection against potential exploitation.