CVE-2019-6827 in Interactive Graphical SCADA System
Summary
by MITRE
A CWE-787: Out-of-bounds Write vulnerability exists in Interactive Graphical SCADA System (IGSS), Version 14 and prior, which could cause a software crash when data in the mdb database is manipulated.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/26/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-6827 represents a critical out-of-bounds write condition classified under CWE-787 within the Interactive Graphical SCADA System version 14 and earlier releases. This flaw manifests when the system processes manipulated data within the mdb database format, creating a scenario where memory access exceeds valid boundaries. The IGSS platform serves industrial control systems and supervisory control applications where reliability and stability are paramount, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for operational technology environments.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate bounds checking during database processing operations. When malicious or malformed data is introduced into the mdb database structure, the system fails to validate array indices or buffer limits before writing data. This allows an attacker to potentially overwrite adjacent memory locations, leading to unpredictable behavior including application crashes, system instability, or in severe cases, potential code execution. The vulnerability specifically affects the database manipulation routines that handle data persistence within the SCADA environment, where database integrity directly impacts operational control systems.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to industrial environments that rely on IGSS for critical infrastructure monitoring and control. The potential for software crashes during database operations could result in loss of operational visibility, disruption of control processes, and compromise of safety-critical systems. Attackers could exploit this weakness to cause denial of service conditions, potentially disrupting industrial operations or creating opportunities for more sophisticated attacks. The impact extends beyond simple system crashes as the vulnerability could be leveraged to destabilize entire control environments where continuous operation is required.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2019-6827 requires immediate implementation of the vendor-provided security patches and updates for IGSS versions 14 and earlier. Organizations should also implement database input validation controls and monitoring for anomalous data patterns within mdb files. Network segmentation and access controls should be strengthened around SCADA systems to limit potential exploitation vectors. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1499.004 for network denial of service and T1070.004 for indicator removal, emphasizing the need for comprehensive defensive measures. The flaw demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in industrial control systems where memory safety violations can have cascading effects on operational technology infrastructure and safety protocols.