CVE-2023-5275 in GX Works2
Summary
by MITRE • 11/30/2023
Improper Input Validation vulnerability in simulation function of GX Works2 allows an attacker to cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition on the function by sending specially crafted packets. However, the attacker would need to send the packets from within the same personal computer where the function is running.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/15/2023
The CVE-2023-5275 vulnerability represents a critical improper input validation flaw within the simulation functionality of GX Works2, a widely used programming environment for Mitsubishi Electric PLCs. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-20 category of "Improper Input Validation" and specifically affects the software's ability to properly sanitize and validate data inputs during simulation operations. The flaw exists in the way GX Works2 processes user-supplied data when executing simulation functions, creating a potential pathway for malicious actors to disrupt normal operational procedures through carefully crafted input sequences.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from insufficient validation mechanisms within the simulation component of GX Works2, which allows attackers to submit malformed or specially constructed data packets that can trigger unexpected behavior in the application. When these packets are processed during simulation operations, they can cause the software to enter an unstable state leading to complete denial-of-service conditions. The vulnerability requires local execution privileges since the attacker must originate packets from the same machine where the GX Works2 application is actively running, which limits the attack surface but does not eliminate the risk entirely. This local requirement means that the vulnerability cannot be exploited remotely over networks, but it remains dangerous in environments where physical access or administrative privileges are compromised.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple service disruption as it can significantly compromise the development and testing workflow for industrial control systems. When GX Works2 experiences a denial-of-service condition during simulation, engineers and technicians lose access to critical debugging and validation capabilities that are essential for proper PLC programming and system integration. This disruption can halt entire development cycles and delay production schedules, particularly in environments where rapid iteration and testing are crucial for maintaining operational efficiency. The vulnerability particularly affects the reliability of simulation testing environments where developers need to validate program logic and system behavior before deployment to actual industrial equipment, making it a significant concern for operational technology environments.
Organizations should implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to address this vulnerability effectively. The primary recommendation involves ensuring that GX Works2 installations are kept current with the latest security patches and updates provided by Mitsubishi Electric, as the vendor has likely addressed this issue in newer releases. System administrators should also implement strict access controls and privilege management to limit who can execute the software and potentially exploit this vulnerability. Network segmentation and endpoint protection measures can help prevent unauthorized local access to systems running GX Works2, while regular security assessments should monitor for any unauthorized modifications to the software environment. Additionally, implementing monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous behavior patterns during simulation operations may help identify potential exploitation attempts before they cause complete service disruption, aligning with the defensive strategies recommended in the MITRE ATT&CK framework for operational technology environments.