CVE-2019-5184 in PFC 200
Summary
by MITRE
An exploitable double free vulnerability exists in the iocheckd service "I/O-Check" functionality of WAGO PFC 200. A specially crafted XML cache file written to a specific location on the device can cause a heap pointer to be freed twice, resulting in a denial of service and potentially code execution. An attacker can send a specially crafted packet to trigger the parsing of this cache file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/30/2024
The CVE-2019-5184 vulnerability represents a critical heap-based double free condition within the iocheckd service of WAGO PFC 200 industrial control devices. This vulnerability resides in the I/O-Check functionality that is responsible for monitoring and managing input/output operations within industrial automation environments. The flaw manifests when a maliciously crafted XML cache file is written to a specific location on the device, triggering a memory management error that can lead to system instability and potential compromise of the industrial control infrastructure. The vulnerability is particularly concerning in industrial settings where device reliability and continuous operation are paramount for operational safety and productivity.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper memory management within the iocheckd service, which processes XML cache files containing configuration data for I/O operations. When the service parses a specially crafted XML file, it fails to properly validate the memory allocation patterns, resulting in a scenario where a heap pointer is freed twice during the processing lifecycle. This double free condition creates a memory corruption state that can be exploited by attackers to manipulate the heap structure and potentially execute arbitrary code. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-415 as an improper behavior in the heap management system, specifically manifesting as a double free condition that violates fundamental memory safety principles. The attack vector requires an attacker to send a specially crafted packet that triggers the parsing of the malicious XML cache file, making this a remote code execution vulnerability within industrial network environments.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-5184 extends beyond simple denial of service to potentially compromise the entire industrial control system. In industrial settings, the WAGO PFC 200 devices operate as critical infrastructure components that manage physical processes and safety systems, making the potential for code execution particularly dangerous. A successful exploitation could allow an attacker to gain unauthorized access to the control system, potentially leading to process manipulation, data corruption, or complete system compromise. The vulnerability affects the availability and integrity of industrial processes, which could result in production downtime, safety hazards, and financial losses. The attack scenario aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and control through application layer protocols, where the exploitation occurs through XML processing and network communication channels. The vulnerability is especially concerning in environments governed by ICS/SCADA standards where the integrity of control systems must be maintained to prevent catastrophic failures.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-5184 should focus on both immediate defensive measures and long-term architectural improvements. Network segmentation and access control should be implemented to limit exposure of affected devices to untrusted networks, while regular firmware updates should be applied to address the underlying memory management issues. The implementation of input validation and sanitization for XML parsing operations can prevent the exploitation of memory corruption vulnerabilities, and regular security assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues within industrial control systems. Additionally, implementing intrusion detection systems specifically designed for industrial environments can help detect anomalous network traffic patterns associated with exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider the broader context of industrial cybersecurity frameworks such as NIST SP 800-82 and IEC 62443 standards that provide guidance for securing industrial control systems against such vulnerabilities. The vulnerability highlights the importance of memory safety in embedded systems and the need for rigorous security testing in industrial environments where the stakes of system compromise are exceptionally high.