CVE-2023-22424 in PLC Programming Software
Summary
by MITRE • 03/06/2023
Use-after-free vulnerability exists in Kostac PLC Programming Software (Former name: Koyo PLC Programming Software) Version 1.6.9.0 and earlier. With the abnormal value given as the maximum number of columns for the PLC program, the process accesses the freed memory. As a result, opening a specially crafted project file may lead to information disclosure and/or arbitrary code execution.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/30/2025
The CVE-2023-22424 vulnerability represents a critical use-after-free flaw in Kostac PLC Programming Software, formerly known as Koyo PLC Programming Software, affecting versions 1.6.9.0 and earlier. This vulnerability stems from improper memory management during the processing of project files, specifically when handling the maximum number of columns parameter in PLC program configurations. The flaw occurs when the software encounters abnormal input values for column specifications, leading to a scenario where memory allocated to store column data is freed but subsequently accessed by the application. This memory access pattern creates a dangerous condition that can be exploited by malicious actors to execute arbitrary code or extract sensitive information from the system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the software's failure to properly validate input parameters when parsing project files. When a user opens a specially crafted project file containing malformed column count data, the application's memory management routines attempt to free memory blocks associated with column data structures. However, the software continues to reference these freed memory locations, creating a use-after-free condition that violates fundamental memory safety principles. This condition can be leveraged through carefully constructed input data to overwrite memory contents or redirect program execution flow, ultimately allowing attackers to achieve code execution privileges on the affected system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution capabilities to encompass potential information disclosure scenarios. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain unauthorized access to sensitive system information, including configuration data, user credentials, or other confidential information stored within the software environment. The vulnerability affects industrial control systems that rely on PLC programming software for automation and process control, making it particularly concerning for critical infrastructure environments where system reliability and security are paramount. The exploitability of this vulnerability is enhanced by the fact that it can be triggered through simple file manipulation, requiring no specialized privileges or complex attack vectors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-22424 should prioritize immediate software updates from the vendor to address the underlying memory management issues. System administrators should implement strict file validation procedures for project files, particularly those received from external sources or untrusted parties. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of affected systems to potential attackers. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-416, which specifically addresses use-after-free conditions in software implementations, and represents a significant concern within the industrial control systems domain. Organizations should also consider implementing runtime protections and memory safety monitoring to detect anomalous behavior patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and memory management in industrial software environments where security failures can have severe operational consequences.