CVE-2019-10980 in LAquis SCADA
Summary
by MITRE
A type confusion vulnerability may be exploited when LAquis SCADA 4.3.1.71 processes a specially crafted project file. This may allow an attacker to execute remote code. The attacker must have local access to the system. A CVSS v3 base score of 7.8 has been calculated; the CVSS vector string is (AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/20/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-10980 represents a critical type confusion flaw within LAquis SCADA version 4.3.1.71 that specifically manifests during the processing of maliciously crafted project files. This type confusion vulnerability stems from improper handling of data types within the software's memory management mechanisms, creating a condition where the application incorrectly interprets the data type of a variable during execution. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-415 as an improper handling of pointer types, which directly enables the exploitation of memory corruption issues. The attack vector requires local access to the system, indicating that an attacker must already have physical or network access to the target machine, though this limitation does not diminish the severity of the potential impact.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when a malicious project file is loaded into the SCADA system, triggering a type confusion scenario that allows for arbitrary code execution. This remote code execution capability represents a severe threat to industrial control systems, as SCADA platforms typically manage critical infrastructure operations including power generation, water treatment, and manufacturing processes. The CVSS v3 base score of 7.8 indicates a high severity level with low attack complexity and no privilege requirements, while the vector string (AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H) demonstrates that the vulnerability can result in complete compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The local access requirement suggests that the attack may involve social engineering or physical access to the system, but once achieved, the impact is devastating.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity of industrial control systems that are critical to maintaining operational continuity and safety. When exploited successfully, the vulnerability enables attackers to gain full control over the SCADA system, potentially leading to unauthorized modifications of process controls, data manipulation, or complete system shutdowns that could result in significant financial losses and safety hazards. The vulnerability's presence in a SCADA environment particularly raises concerns about the potential for cascading failures across interconnected systems, as these platforms often serve as the backbone of critical infrastructure. Organizations relying on LAquis SCADA systems face the risk of operational disruption, regulatory compliance violations, and potential safety incidents that could affect public welfare.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-10980 should focus on immediate patching of the affected LAquis SCADA software to version 4.3.1.72 or later, which contains the necessary fixes for the type confusion vulnerability. Additionally, organizations should implement strict access controls and network segmentation to limit local access to SCADA systems, as the vulnerability requires local presence to exploit. Network monitoring and anomaly detection systems should be enhanced to identify suspicious project file loading activities, while regular security assessments should be conducted to verify system integrity. The implementation of principle of least privilege access controls and mandatory access controls can further reduce the attack surface, as outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and aligned with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter. Regular security awareness training for personnel who interact with SCADA systems should also be implemented to reduce the risk of social engineering attacks that could lead to local access, while maintaining comprehensive backup and recovery procedures to ensure operational continuity in case of successful exploitation.