CVE-2021-32947 in FvDesigner
Summary
by MITRE • 08/11/2021
FATEK Automation FvDesigner, Versions 1.5.88 and prior is vulnerable to a stack-based buffer overflow, which may allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/16/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-32947 affects FATEK Automation FvDesigner software versions 1.5.88 and earlier, presenting a critical stack-based buffer overflow condition that could enable remote code execution. This flaw exists within the software's handling of user-supplied input during file processing operations, specifically when parsing project files or configuration data. The buffer overflow occurs when the application fails to properly validate the length of incoming data before copying it into a fixed-size stack buffer, creating an exploitable condition that allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the FvDesigner application's parsing routines. When processing specially crafted project files or configuration parameters, the software allocates a stack buffer of insufficient size to accommodate the incoming data payload. This design flaw aligns with CWE-121, which describes stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite stack memory. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it operates within the context of an automation design tool that would typically run with elevated privileges during normal operation, potentially providing attackers with increased system access rights.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability creates significant risk for industrial control systems and automation environments where FvDesigner is deployed. The ability to execute arbitrary code remotely means that attackers could potentially compromise entire automation networks, manipulate control systems, or establish persistent backdoors within industrial environments. The attack vector likely involves sending malicious project files or configuration data to a system running the vulnerable FvDesigner software, which could be delivered through various means including email attachments, web downloads, or direct file transfer mechanisms. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and availability of industrial control processes, making it particularly dangerous in critical infrastructure environments.
The exploitation of this vulnerability would likely follow patterns consistent with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter, where attackers could leverage the buffer overflow to inject and execute malicious code within the target system. Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching of affected systems to version 1.5.89 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of affected systems, while regular security assessments should monitor for any signs of exploitation attempts. Additionally, input sanitization procedures should be enhanced to validate all incoming data streams and implement proper bounds checking mechanisms to prevent similar issues in future software deployments. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to restrict execution of unauthorized software within automation environments.