CVE-2019-6532 in FPWIN Pro
Summary
by MITRE
Panasonic FPWIN Pro version 7.3.0.0 and prior allows attacker-created project files to be loaded by an authenticated user triggering incompatible type errors because the resource does not have expected properties. This may lead to remote code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/28/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-6532 affects Panasonic FPWIN Pro version 7.3.0.0 and earlier installations, representing a critical security flaw in industrial automation software. This issue manifests when authenticated users load attacker-crafted project files that contain malformed data structures, creating a scenario where the application fails to properly validate resource properties during the loading process. The flaw resides in the software's insufficient input validation mechanisms, specifically within the project file parsing functionality that does not adequately verify the integrity and expected format of loaded resources.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate type checking and resource validation within the application's project loading subsystem. When an authenticated user opens a maliciously crafted project file, the software attempts to process resource elements that lack the expected properties or contain unexpected data types. This mismatch between expected and actual resource characteristics triggers internal type errors that the application cannot properly handle, creating a potential execution path for arbitrary code injection. The vulnerability operates under CWE-129, which categorizes improper validation of array indices and resource properties, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter usage. The root cause demonstrates a classic buffer overflow vulnerability pattern where improper resource handling leads to memory corruption conditions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data corruption, as it provides a potential pathway for remote code execution within the context of the target system. An attacker who can convince an authenticated user to open a malicious project file gains the ability to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the user running the FPWIN Pro application. This represents a significant escalation risk in industrial control environments where these applications are commonly used for programmable logic controller development and system configuration. The vulnerability affects not only the immediate execution environment but also potentially compromises the broader industrial network by enabling lateral movement and persistence mechanisms. Organizations utilizing Panasonic FPWIN Pro in critical infrastructure settings face heightened risk of operational disruption and security breaches when this vulnerability remains unpatched.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-6532 should prioritize immediate software updates to versions that address the resource validation flaws in the project file handling functionality. Security administrators must implement strict access controls and user authentication measures to limit who can load project files, while also establishing network segmentation to prevent unauthorized file transfers. The implementation of application whitelisting policies can help restrict execution of unauthorized project files, and regular security assessments should verify that the updated software properly validates resource properties. Additionally, network monitoring solutions should be configured to detect anomalous file loading activities and potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing secure coding practices for any custom automation software that interfaces with similar industrial control systems, ensuring proper input validation and resource property verification mechanisms are in place to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in their own codebases.