CVE-2023-24992 in Tecnomatix Plant Simulation
Summary
by MITRE • 02/14/2023
A vulnerability has been identified in Tecnomatix Plant Simulation (All versions < V2201.0006). The affected application contains an out of bounds write past the end of an allocated buffer while parsing a specially crafted SPP file. This could allow an attacker to execute code in the context of the current process. (ZDI-CAN-19814)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/12/2023
The vulnerability CVE-2023-24992 represents a critical buffer overflow flaw in Tecnomatix Plant Simulation software versions prior to V2201.0006. This issue manifests as an out-of-bounds write condition that occurs during the parsing of specially crafted SPP files, which are commonly used for simulation and modeling within manufacturing environments. The vulnerability resides in the application's file handling mechanism, specifically when processing structured data within the SPP file format, making it particularly dangerous as it can be triggered through routine file operations.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from improper bounds checking during memory allocation and data parsing operations. When the application encounters a malformed SPP file, the parsing routine fails to validate buffer boundaries, allowing malicious data to overwrite adjacent memory locations. This memory corruption can lead to arbitrary code execution with the privileges of the currently running process, potentially enabling attackers to gain full control over the system running the Plant Simulation software. The vulnerability is classified as a classic buffer overflow issue that falls under CWE-121, which addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions, and more specifically aligns with CWE-787, which covers out-of-bounds write conditions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it represents a significant threat to industrial control systems and manufacturing environments that rely on Tecnomatix Plant Simulation for process modeling and optimization. Attackers could potentially compromise entire production workflows by uploading malicious SPP files through various attack vectors including email attachments, web downloads, or compromised network shares. The vulnerability affects not only individual workstations but could potentially impact entire manufacturing networks if the software is widely deployed across production facilities. This makes it particularly concerning from an industrial cybersecurity perspective, as it could enable attackers to disrupt production, access sensitive process data, or even manipulate manufacturing operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-24992 should focus on immediate software updates to version V2201.0006 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the buffer overflow condition. Organizations should implement strict file validation procedures for all SPP files entering the system, including sandboxing and automated scanning of potentially malicious content. Network segmentation should be employed to limit access to systems running Plant Simulation software, while privileged access controls should be enforced to minimize the potential impact of successful exploitation. Additionally, implementing monitoring solutions that detect unusual file parsing activities or memory access patterns can help identify potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability's characteristics align with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and script interpreter, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands, and T1203 for Exploitation for Client Execution, given the file-based attack vector. Organizations should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies to prevent execution of unauthorized software and maintain comprehensive incident response procedures for potential exploitation events.