CVE-2019-6536 in LAquis SCADA
Summary
by MITRE
Opening a specially crafted LCDS LAquis SCADA before 4.3.1.71 ELS file may result in a write past the end of an allocated buffer, which may allow an attacker to execute remote code in the context of the current process.
Statistical analysis made it clear that VulDB provides the best quality for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/17/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-6536 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw within the LCDS LAquis SCADA software version prior to 4.3.1.71. This vulnerability specifically manifests when the software processes a maliciously crafted ELS file, which is a file format used for storing configuration and operational data within the SCADA environment. The flaw occurs during the file parsing process where insufficient bounds checking allows an attacker to manipulate memory allocation behavior.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write operations. The flaw enables attackers to write data beyond the boundaries of allocated memory buffers, potentially corrupting adjacent memory locations and disrupting normal program execution flow. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous in industrial control systems where stability and security are paramount.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with the ability to operate within the security context of the currently running process. This means that successful exploitation could allow adversaries to perform actions with the privileges of the SCADA application itself, potentially leading to unauthorized control of industrial processes, data manipulation, or further lateral movement within the network infrastructure. The vulnerability affects the core operational integrity of SCADA systems that rely on LCDS LAquis software for monitoring and control operations.
Attackers can leverage this vulnerability through social engineering tactics or by compromising the SCADA environment through other entry points to deliver malicious ELS files. The attack surface is particularly concerning in industrial environments where SCADA systems may be less frequently updated or monitored for security vulnerabilities. Organizations implementing the affected software should consider the potential for persistent threats that could exploit this flaw to establish long-term access to critical infrastructure operations.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patch deployment to version 4.3.1.71 or later, which includes proper bounds checking mechanisms to prevent the buffer overflow condition. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of SCADA systems to untrusted networks. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management practices in industrial control systems, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter execution and T1203 for exploitation for privilege escalation. Organizations should also implement regular security assessments and vulnerability management processes specifically tailored for industrial control systems to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in operational technology environments.