CVE-2021-27398 in Tecnomatix Plant Simulation
Summary
by MITRE • 05/12/2021
A vulnerability has been identified in Tecnomatix Plant Simulation (All versions < V16.0.5). The PlantSimCore.dll library lacks proper validation of user-supplied data when parsing SPP files. This could result in a stack based buffer overflow, a different vulnerability than CVE-2021-27396. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process. (ZDI-CAN-13290)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/15/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-27398 affects Tecnomatix Plant Simulation software across all versions prior to V16.0.5, specifically targeting the PlantSimCore.dll library component. This issue represents a critical security flaw that stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms when processing SPP files, which are commonly used within the plant simulation environment for storing and exchanging simulation data. The affected library fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied data before processing it, creating an exploitable condition that can lead to arbitrary code execution.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability manifests as a stack-based buffer overflow, a well-documented class of vulnerabilities categorized under CWE-121. This particular flaw occurs when the PlantSimCore.dll library attempts to parse SPP files without sufficient bounds checking on the input data. When maliciously crafted data is fed into the parsing routine, it can overwrite adjacent memory locations on the stack, potentially corrupting program execution flow. The overflow specifically targets the stack memory region, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited to overwrite return addresses, function pointers, or other critical control data structures within the program's execution context.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data corruption, as it enables attackers to achieve arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the currently running process. This means that an attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could execute malicious code within the same security context as the PlantSimCore.dll library, potentially gaining access to sensitive simulation data, system resources, or even escalating privileges further within the network environment. The vulnerability presents a significant risk to industrial control systems and manufacturing environments that rely on Tecnomatix Plant Simulation for process modeling and optimization.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, and T1068 for exploit for privilege escalation. The attack surface is particularly concerning in industrial environments where these simulation tools are often used in conjunction with production systems, potentially allowing attackers to compromise not just the simulation environment but also adjacent operational technology systems. Organizations should consider implementing network segmentation and access controls to limit exposure, while also ensuring that all instances of Tecnomatix Plant Simulation are updated to version V16.0.5 or later to remediate this vulnerability. The ZDI-CAN-13290 reference indicates that this vulnerability was recognized and tracked by the Zero Day Initiative, highlighting its significance in the cybersecurity community and the need for prompt remediation efforts.