CVE-2023-4685 in CNCSoft-B DOPSoft
Summary
by MITRE • 09/07/2023
Delta Electronics' CNCSoft-B version 1.0.0.4 and DOPSoft versions 4.0.0.82 and prior are vulnerable to stack-based buffer overflow, which could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/22/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-4685 affects Delta Electronics' CNCSoft-B version 1.0.0.4 and DOPSoft versions 4.0.0.82 and prior, representing a critical stack-based buffer overflow flaw that poses significant security risks to industrial control systems. This vulnerability resides within the software components used for computer numerical control operations and industrial automation processes, making it particularly dangerous in environments where operational technology and information technology converge. The affected systems typically operate in manufacturing and industrial settings where precise control of machinery and processes is essential, creating a high-value target for attackers seeking to disrupt critical operations or gain unauthorized access to sensitive industrial infrastructure.
The technical flaw manifests as a stack-based buffer overflow condition that occurs when the software fails to properly validate input data before processing it within a fixed-size buffer allocated on the stack memory segment. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121, which specifically addresses stack-based buffer overflow conditions where insufficient bounds checking allows attackers to overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses, function pointers, and other critical control data. When exploited, this buffer overflow can be leveraged to overwrite the instruction pointer and redirect program execution flow, enabling attackers to inject and execute arbitrary code within the context of the vulnerable software process. The attack vector typically involves sending specially crafted input data that exceeds the allocated buffer size, causing the overflow to overwrite critical memory segments that control program execution.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise and potential disruption of industrial processes. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can gain persistent access to industrial control systems, potentially leading to unauthorized modification of control parameters, disruption of manufacturing processes, or even physical damage to equipment through malicious manipulation of CNC operations. The implications are particularly severe in critical infrastructure environments where these software components control machinery, production lines, and safety systems, as the attack could result in production halts, quality control failures, or safety hazards. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for command and scripting interpreter and T1078.004 for valid accounts, as exploitation may involve executing malicious code through legitimate software interfaces and potentially leveraging compromised user accounts within industrial environments.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-4685 should prioritize immediate software updates from Delta Electronics to address the identified buffer overflow vulnerability, as this represents the most direct and effective solution to prevent exploitation. Organizations should implement network segmentation to isolate industrial control systems from general information technology networks, reducing attack surface and limiting potential lateral movement if compromise occurs. Access controls and authentication measures should be strengthened to ensure that only authorized personnel can interact with the vulnerable software components, while regular security monitoring and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting policies and runtime protection mechanisms can provide additional defense layers against exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of secure software development practices and regular security testing of industrial control system software, as highlighted by industry standards such as NIST SP 800-82 for industrial control systems security and IEC 62443 for industrial automation and control systems security.