CVE-2020-7553 in IGSS Definition
Summary
by MITRE • 11/20/2020
A CWE-787 Out-of-bounds Write vulnerability exists in IGSS Definition (Def.exe) version 14.0.0.20247 that could cause Remote Code Execution when malicious CGF (Configuration Group File) file is imported to IGSS Definition.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/09/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-7553 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw classified under CWE-787 within the IGSS Definition software component known as Def.exe. This vulnerability specifically affects version 14.0.0.20247 of the IGSS (Integrated Graphics and Supervisory System) software suite, which is widely utilized in industrial control systems and supervisory control and data acquisition environments. The issue manifests when the software processes maliciously crafted CGF (Configuration Group File) files during the import operation, creating a dangerous condition that can be exploited by remote attackers to achieve arbitrary code execution on the targeted system.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and boundary checking within the Def.exe application when handling CGF file structures. When a malicious CGF file is imported, the software fails to properly validate the size and structure of data elements within the file, allowing an attacker to craft input that exceeds the allocated buffer space. This out-of-bounds write condition occurs because the application does not perform sufficient bounds checking before writing data to memory locations, potentially overwriting adjacent memory regions including critical control structures, function pointers, or return addresses. The vulnerability's classification as CWE-787 indicates that it specifically involves writing to memory locations outside the bounds of allocated buffers, which is a common vector for exploitation in software security flaws.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple system instability, as it enables full remote code execution capabilities that can be leveraged by attackers to gain complete control over affected systems. Industrial control systems running IGSS Definition software become particularly vulnerable to compromise, as these systems often operate in critical infrastructure environments where unauthorized access can lead to significant operational disruptions, safety hazards, or data breaches. The remote exploitation capability means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous in network-connected industrial environments. This vulnerability can be exploited to install backdoors, modify control parameters, disrupt operations, or exfiltrate sensitive operational data, potentially affecting critical manufacturing processes or utility operations.
Security mitigations for CVE-2020-7553 should prioritize immediate software updates from the vendor to address the underlying buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement strict file validation procedures that prevent untrusted CGF files from being processed by the IGSS Definition software, including implementing file type restrictions and content scanning mechanisms. Network segmentation strategies should be employed to isolate industrial control systems from general network access, reducing the attack surface available to potential attackers. Additionally, monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual import activities or file processing patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK techniques related to privilege escalation and execution through legitimate system processes, making it particularly concerning for industrial cybersecurity frameworks. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies and regular security assessments to prevent exploitation of similar buffer overflow vulnerabilities in other industrial control system components.