CVE-2022-34273 in PADS Standard
Summary
by MITRE • 07/12/2022
A vulnerability has been identified in PADS Standard/Plus Viewer (All versions). The affected application contains an out of bounds write past the end of an allocated structure while parsing specially crafted PCB files. This could allow an attacker to execute code in the context of the current process. (FG-VD-22-038)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/21/2022
The vulnerability CVE-2022-34273 affects PADS Standard/Plus Viewer software across all versions, representing a critical security flaw that could enable remote code execution. This issue stems from improper input validation during the parsing of PCB (Printed Circuit Board) files, which are commonly used in electronic design automation environments. The vulnerability specifically manifests as an out-of-bounds write condition that occurs when the application processes malformed PCB data structures, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate memory layout and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the currently running process.
This flaw constitutes a classic buffer overflow vulnerability that falls under CWE-787, which describes out-of-bounds writes in software applications. The technical implementation involves the application's failure to properly validate array indices or structure boundaries when processing PCB file formats, particularly in how it handles allocated memory regions during data parsing operations. When an attacker crafts a malicious PCB file with malformed data, the parsing routine attempts to write data beyond the intended memory boundaries, potentially overwriting adjacent memory locations including function pointers, return addresses, or other critical program state information.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it could enable attackers to achieve full system compromise within the context of the application's execution environment. Since PADS Viewer is commonly used in engineering and design environments, attackers could potentially leverage this vulnerability to compromise design workstations, access sensitive intellectual property, or establish persistent access points within corporate networks. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that PCB files are often shared between design teams and may be processed automatically by automated systems, making the exploitation vector both accessible and potentially automated.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate software updates from the vendor, as well as network-level controls to prevent processing of untrusted PCB files. Organizations should implement principle of least privilege for PADS Viewer installations, ensuring that the application runs with minimal required permissions. Additionally, input validation should be enhanced at multiple layers including file format validation, memory boundary checks, and runtime monitoring for suspicious memory access patterns. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter usage, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute malicious commands within the compromised application context, potentially leading to further lateral movement and privilege escalation within the network environment.