CVE-2021-27399 in Simcenter Femap
Summary
by MITRE • 06/09/2021
A vulnerability has been identified in Simcenter Femap 2020.2 (All versions < V2020.2.MP3), Simcenter Femap 2021.1 (All versions < V2021.1.MP3). The femap.exe application lacks proper validation of user-supplied data when parsing FEMAP files. This could result in an out of bounds write past the end of an allocated structure, a different vulnerability than CVE-2021-27387. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to execute code in the context of the current process. (ZDI-CAN-12820)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/11/2021
This vulnerability exists within Siemens Simcenter Femap software versions prior to specific maintenance releases, specifically affecting Simcenter Femap 2020.2 and 2021.1. The flaw resides in the femap.exe application's insufficient validation mechanisms when processing FEMAP files, creating a critical security gap that could be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability manifests as an out-of-bounds write condition that occurs when the application attempts to parse user-supplied data within FEMAP file structures. This particular weakness represents a distinct issue from CVE-2021-27387, indicating separate code paths and attack vectors within the software's file processing functionality. The vulnerability falls under CWE-787, which specifically addresses out-of-bounds write conditions in software applications where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to write data beyond the allocated memory boundaries of structures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it enables arbitrary code execution within the context of the currently running process. An attacker who successfully exploits this flaw could gain complete control over the affected system, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data compromise, or system takeover. The attack requires the victim to open or process a maliciously crafted FEMAP file, which could be delivered through various means including email attachments, malicious websites, or compromised software distribution channels. The vulnerability's exploitation potential is heightened by the fact that it operates at the application level without requiring elevated privileges, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where engineering and simulation software is widely deployed.
Security professionals should prioritize immediate remediation by updating to the patched versions of Simcenter Femap, specifically V2020.2.MP3 and V2021.1.MP3, which contain the necessary fixes for this vulnerability. Organizations should also implement defensive measures including restricting file processing capabilities, implementing strict file validation policies, and monitoring for suspicious file access patterns. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203, which involves executing malicious code through application exploitation, and represents a critical threat to engineering and simulation environments where sensitive design data and intellectual property reside. Additionally, the flaw demonstrates the importance of input validation and proper memory management practices in safety-critical applications, as outlined in industry standards for secure software development and risk mitigation protocols.