CVE-2020-7558 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-2020-7558 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 (Industrial Gateway Software System) suite, which is commonly used in industrial control systems and SCADA environments for configuration management and system definition. The flaw manifests when the software processes maliciously crafted CGF (Configuration Group File) files during the import operation, creating a remote code execution vector that could be exploited by attackers positioned outside the trusted network boundary.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and bounds checking within the Def.exe application when parsing CGF file structures. When a user or system imports a specially crafted CGF file, the application fails to properly validate array indices or buffer limits, allowing an attacker to write data beyond the allocated memory boundaries. This memory corruption can be leveraged to overwrite critical program structures, function pointers, or executable code segments, ultimately enabling arbitrary code execution on the target system. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates through a legitimate import mechanism that might be triggered by automated processes or user actions, making it difficult to detect and prevent through traditional network monitoring approaches.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it fundamentally compromises the integrity and availability of industrial control systems that rely on IGSS Definition for configuration management. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain full control over the affected system, potentially leading to unauthorized access to critical infrastructure components, data manipulation, or disruption of industrial processes. The remote exploitation aspect means that attackers do not require physical access to the system, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in operational technology environments where security boundaries may be less strictly enforced. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter, as successful exploitation would likely involve executing malicious code through the compromised system.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate deployment of vendor-provided patches or updates to the IGSS Definition software, as well as implementation of network segmentation to limit access to systems running the vulnerable component. Organizations should also establish strict file validation procedures for all CGF imports, including scanning for suspicious file patterns and implementing least privilege access controls for configuration management functions. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and memory safety practices in industrial control systems, as highlighted by CWE-787's emphasis on preventing out-of-bounds writes through proper bounds checking. Security monitoring should focus on detecting unusual import activities and file processing patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, while network perimeter controls should be strengthened to prevent unauthorized access to industrial systems that might host vulnerable IGSS components.