CVE-2021-22754 in IGSS Definition
Summary
by MITRE • 06/11/2021
A CWE-787: Out-of-bounds write vulnerability exists inIGSS Definition (Def.exe) V15.0.0.21140 and prior that could result in loss of data or remote code execution due to lack of proper validation of user-supplied data, when a malicious CGF file is imported to IGSS Definition.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/14/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-22754 represents a critical out-of-bounds write condition classified under CWE-787 within the IGSS Definition software component known as Def.exe. This flaw affects versions 15.0.0.21140 and earlier, creating a significant security risk that can be exploited through improper input validation mechanisms. The vulnerability manifests when the software processes maliciously crafted CGF files, which are typically used for configuration and definition purposes within industrial control systems. The root cause stems from insufficient bounds checking during the parsing of user-supplied data, allowing attackers to manipulate memory allocation patterns and potentially overwrite adjacent memory locations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the import process of specially crafted CGF files that contain malformed data structures. When Def.exe attempts to parse these files without adequate validation, the software fails to verify array boundaries or buffer limits before writing data to memory locations. This condition creates opportunities for attackers to inject malicious code or manipulate program execution flow by overwriting critical memory segments. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data corruption, as it can lead to complete system compromise through remote code execution capabilities. The flaw specifically affects the memory management routines within the software's configuration file parser, where insufficient input sanitization allows attackers to manipulate the program's memory layout.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses severe risks to industrial control systems and manufacturing environments that rely on IGSS Definition software for operational technology infrastructure. The potential for remote code execution means that attackers could gain unauthorized access to critical systems without requiring physical presence or local credentials. The impact includes data loss, system instability, and possible operational disruption in environments where continuous operation is essential. Organizations utilizing affected versions of IGSS Definition face significant exposure since the vulnerability can be triggered through legitimate software interaction paths, making it particularly dangerous in operational technology environments where system availability is paramount. The flaw affects the integrity of the entire software stack, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges and establish persistent access to industrial control networks.
Security mitigations for CVE-2021-22754 should prioritize immediate software updates to versions that address the out-of-bounds write condition through proper input validation and bounds checking mechanisms. Organizations must implement strict file validation procedures for all CGF file imports, including content scanning and sandboxing techniques to prevent malicious files from reaching the vulnerable parser. Network segmentation strategies should isolate industrial control systems from general network access to limit potential attack vectors. The mitigation approach should also include monitoring for suspicious file import activities and implementing automated threat detection systems that can identify malformed CGF files. Additionally, security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments of their operational technology environments to identify other potential entry points that could be exploited in conjunction with this vulnerability. This remediation strategy aligns with ATT&CK techniques focused on privilege escalation and execution through legitimate user programs, emphasizing the need for layered security controls that address both the immediate vulnerability and broader threat landscape.