CVE-2020-18758 in PLC MAC1100
Summary
by MITRE • 08/14/2021
An issue in Dut Computer Control Engineering Co.'s PLC MAC1100 allows attackers to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/18/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-18758 represents a critical security flaw within the PLC MAC1100 industrial control device manufactured by Dut Computer Control Engineering Co. This programmable logic controller serves as a fundamental component in industrial automation systems, controlling machinery and processes across various sectors including manufacturing, energy, and infrastructure. The device operates within operational technology environments where reliability and security are paramount, making vulnerabilities particularly dangerous as they can compromise entire industrial processes. The flaw manifests as a remote code execution vulnerability that could enable attackers to gain unauthorized control over the affected system, potentially leading to catastrophic consequences in industrial settings where these devices are deployed.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and improper access controls within the PLC MAC1100's communication protocols and firmware implementation. Attackers can exploit this weakness by sending specially crafted malicious payloads to the device, which then executes arbitrary code with elevated privileges. This type of vulnerability typically falls under CWE-787, which describes out-of-bounds write conditions, or CWE-119, which encompasses weaknesses related to insufficient protection of memory. The vulnerability's remote exploitability means that attackers do not require physical access to the device, allowing them to target systems from external networks, thereby expanding the potential attack surface significantly.
The operational impact of CVE-2020-18758 extends far beyond simple data compromise, as it enables full system takeover capabilities that could result in production halts, safety hazards, and financial losses. In industrial environments, the ability to execute arbitrary code on a PLC can lead to unauthorized process modifications, data manipulation, or complete system shutdowns that may affect critical infrastructure operations. This vulnerability particularly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059, which covers command and scripting interpreter, and T1072, which involves software deployment tools. The compromised device could serve as a foothold for lateral movement within industrial networks, potentially enabling attackers to access other connected systems and escalate their privileges across the operational technology infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should encompass multiple layers of security controls to address both immediate and long-term protection needs. Organizations must implement network segmentation to isolate industrial control systems from general corporate networks, thereby reducing the attack surface available to potential adversaries. Regular firmware updates and patches from the vendor should be deployed immediately upon availability, as manufacturers typically provide security updates to address known vulnerabilities. Network monitoring solutions should be configured to detect anomalous communications patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, particularly focusing on unusual traffic to and from industrial control devices. Additionally, implementing robust access controls including strong authentication mechanisms, disabling unnecessary services, and conducting regular security assessments of industrial control systems can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of industrial cybersecurity frameworks such as NIST SP 800-82 and IEC 62443 standards, which provide comprehensive guidelines for securing industrial automation and control systems against such threats.