CVE-2020-14482 in DOPSoft
Summary
by MITRE
Delta Industrial Automation DOPSoft, Version 4.00.08.15 and prior. Opening a specially crafted project file may overflow the heap, which may allow remote code execution, disclosure/modification of information, or cause the application to crash.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/01/2020
Delta Industrial Automation DOPSoft version 4.00.08.15 and earlier contains a heap buffer overflow vulnerability that arises when processing specially crafted project files. This vulnerability falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-121, which describes heap-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to write beyond allocated memory boundaries. The flaw occurs during the parsing of project file structures, specifically when the application handles malformed data that exceeds expected buffer limits. The vulnerability presents a significant security risk as it can be exploited remotely through the manipulation of project files, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of the application's privileges. The heap overflow condition creates opportunities for information disclosure, modification of data, and application instability leading to denial of service scenarios. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by crafting malicious project files that trigger the overflow when opened by the vulnerable DOPSoft application. The remote code execution capability stems from the ability to overwrite critical memory locations including return addresses and function pointers, enabling attackers to redirect program execution flow. This vulnerability impacts industrial automation environments where DOPSoft is used for configuring and managing industrial control systems, potentially affecting operational technology infrastructure. The exploitation requires minimal user interaction as simply opening a malicious project file is sufficient to trigger the vulnerability. Organizations using this software should consider implementing strict file validation controls and network segmentation to limit potential attack surfaces. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation in industrial control software and highlights the need for robust memory management practices in embedded systems. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for remote code execution and T1068 for privilege escalation opportunities. The security implications extend beyond immediate exploitation to potential compromise of entire industrial control networks. System administrators should prioritize patching affected versions and consider implementing application whitelisting controls to prevent execution of untrusted project files. The vulnerability represents a critical risk to industrial environments where software reliability and security are paramount for operational continuity and safety.