CVE-2021-22668 in CNCSoft ScreenEditor
Summary
by MITRE • 05/16/2021
Delta Industrial Automation CNCSoft ScreenEditor Versions 1.01.28 (with ScreenEditor Version 1.01.2) and prior are vulnerable to an out-of-bounds read while processing project files, which may allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/20/2021
Delta Industrial Automation CNCSoft ScreenEditor versions 1.01.28 and prior contain a critical out-of-bounds read vulnerability that stems from improper input validation during project file processing. This flaw manifests when the application attempts to read memory locations beyond the allocated buffer boundaries while parsing project files, creating a potential code execution vector for malicious actors. The vulnerability is classified as a CWE-125 Out-of-bounds Read, which represents a fundamental memory safety issue where the software fails to properly validate array indices or buffer limits before accessing memory regions. The root cause lies in the insufficient bounds checking mechanisms within the project file parser, allowing attackers to craft specially malformed project files that trigger the out-of-bounds memory access condition.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it represents a severe security risk for industrial control systems and manufacturing environments. Attackers can exploit this weakness by delivering malicious project files through various attack vectors including email attachments, compromised websites, or supply chain attacks targeting industrial automation environments. The vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1203 Exploitation for Client Execution, where adversaries leverage application vulnerabilities to execute arbitrary code on target systems. When successfully exploited, the out-of-bounds read can lead to complete system compromise, allowing attackers to gain persistent access to industrial control systems and potentially disrupt critical manufacturing processes. This risk is particularly concerning in industrial settings where CNC machines and automation systems operate in closed-loop environments with limited network segmentation and security monitoring.
The vulnerability affects organizations using Delta Industrial Automation CNCSoft ScreenEditor in manufacturing environments where project files are frequently exchanged between operators and engineers. Industrial control systems often lack the robust security controls found in traditional enterprise environments, making these systems particularly attractive targets for adversaries seeking to establish persistent footholds in critical infrastructure. The exploitation of this vulnerability could enable attackers to manipulate production processes, access sensitive operational data, or cause physical damage to manufacturing equipment through unauthorized control commands. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation to isolate industrial control systems from general enterprise networks, deploy application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of unauthorized software, and establish regular vulnerability assessment procedures for industrial automation systems. Additionally, the vulnerability highlights the importance of secure software development practices and the need for comprehensive input validation in industrial control applications to prevent similar memory safety issues from compromising operational technology environments.