CVE-2020-28394 in JT2Go
Summary
by MITRE • 02/10/2021
A vulnerability has been identified in JT2Go (All versions < V13.1.0.1), Teamcenter Visualization (All versions < V13.1.0.1). Affected applications lack proper validation of user-supplied data when parsing of RAS files. This could result in a memory access past the end of an allocated buffer. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to access data in the context of the current process. (ZDI-CAN-12283)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/27/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-28394 affects JT2Go and Teamcenter Visualization software versions prior to V13.1.0.1, representing a critical buffer overflow condition that stems from inadequate input validation during RAS file parsing operations. This flaw resides in the software's handling of user-supplied data, specifically when processing RAS (Real-time Application Specification) files that are commonly used for visualization and engineering data exchange. The absence of proper bounds checking during file parsing creates a scenario where maliciously crafted RAS files can cause the application to access memory locations beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution or information disclosure.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-121, which describes buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows memory access beyond allocated storage. The flaw manifests when the application attempts to parse malformed RAS files without adequate validation of input parameters, particularly regarding array indexing and memory allocation limits. This type of vulnerability falls under the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as exploitation may involve crafting specific file content to trigger the buffer overflow condition. The memory corruption resulting from this issue can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code within the context of the current process, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges or access sensitive data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple denial of service scenarios, as it provides potential attackers with means to compromise the integrity and confidentiality of systems running affected software. When an attacker successfully exploits this vulnerability through a malicious RAS file, they can potentially execute code with the privileges of the affected application, which typically runs with elevated permissions in visualization environments. The implications are particularly severe in enterprise settings where these visualization tools are used for engineering design, product development, and collaborative work environments, as the compromise could lead to intellectual property theft, system infiltration, or disruption of critical business processes. The vulnerability's exploitation requires the victim to open or process a specially crafted RAS file, making social engineering and targeted phishing campaigns effective attack vectors.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigation strategies including applying the vendor-provided patches and updates for JT2Go and Teamcenter Visualization to version V13.1.0.1 or later, which contain the necessary fixes for the buffer overflow condition. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of these applications to untrusted users and external networks, while monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual file processing activities or attempts to access restricted system resources. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of unauthorized software and conducting regular security assessments of visualization environments can help reduce the attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and proper memory management practices in preventing exploitation of buffer overflow conditions, aligning with industry best practices for secure coding standards and defense-in-depth strategies as recommended by NIST and ISO/IEC 27001 frameworks.