CVE-2022-21219 in CX-Programmer
Summary
by MITRE • 03/10/2022
Out-of-bounds read vulnerability in CX-Programmer v9.76.1 and earlier which is a part of CX-One (v4.60) suite allows an attacker to cause information disclosure and/or arbitrary code execution by having a user to open a specially crafted CXP file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/12/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-21219 represents a critical out-of-bounds read flaw within CX-Programmer version 9.76.1 and earlier, which forms part of the CX-One suite version 4.60. This issue arises from insufficient input validation and bounds checking within the software's file parsing mechanism, specifically when processing specially crafted CXP files. The vulnerability exists in the context of industrial automation software where users frequently open project files containing program logic and configuration data, making it particularly dangerous in operational technology environments where such software is commonly deployed.
The technical flaw manifests as an out-of-bounds memory read condition that occurs when the CX-Programmer application attempts to parse maliciously constructed CXP files. During file processing, the application fails to properly validate array indices or buffer limits, allowing an attacker to manipulate the parsing logic through crafted input data. This vulnerability maps to CWE-125 Out-of-bounds Read, which is classified as a memory safety issue in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog, and specifically relates to improper validation of buffer boundaries. The flaw enables attackers to trigger memory access violations that can result in information disclosure through memory dumps or potentially enable arbitrary code execution through controlled memory corruption.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it creates a potential pathway for remote code execution within industrial control systems. When a user opens a malicious CXP file, the out-of-bounds read can lead to unpredictable behavior including application crashes, memory corruption, or more severe exploitation scenarios. In industrial environments where CX-Programmer is used for programming and configuring programmable logic controllers, this vulnerability could allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to critical control systems. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1203 Exploitation for Client Execution, as it leverages user interaction with malicious files to achieve system compromise. The risk is particularly elevated in environments where users may not be security-aware or where file validation processes are inadequate.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-21219 should focus on both immediate remediation and long-term security hardening. The primary recommendation is to upgrade to CX-Programmer version 9.77.0 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the out-of-bounds read vulnerability. Organizations should implement strict file validation policies that prevent opening of untrusted CXP files, particularly from external sources or unknown origins. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of industrial systems to potentially malicious files. Additionally, security awareness training for operators and engineers who use CX-Programmer should emphasize the risks of opening unverified project files. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and bounds checking in industrial automation software, aligning with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-160 and ISO/IEC 27030 standards for secure software development. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting solutions and endpoint protection measures to prevent execution of malicious files even if they bypass initial validation checks.