CVE-2024-47136 in Kostac PLC Programming Software
Summary
by MITRE • 10/03/2024
Out-of-bounds read vulnerability exists in Kostac PLC Programming Software (Former name: Koyo PLC Programming Software) Version 1.6.14.0 and earlier. Having a user open a specially crafted project file which was saved using Kostac PLC Programming Software Version 1.6.9.0 and earlier may cause a denial-of-service (DoS) condition, arbitrary code execution, and/or information disclosure because the issues exist in parsing of KPP project files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/08/2025
The CVE-2024-47136 vulnerability represents a critical out-of-bounds read flaw within Kostac PLC Programming Software, formerly known as Koyo PLC Programming Software, affecting versions 1.6.14.0 and earlier. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation during the parsing of KPP project files, creating a dangerous condition where maliciously crafted project files can trigger unexpected behavior in the software. The vulnerability specifically manifests when users open project files created with earlier versions of the software, particularly version 1.6.9.0 and earlier, making it particularly concerning for industrial control environments where legacy system compatibility is essential. The flaw operates at the file parsing layer, where the software fails to properly validate array bounds when processing structured data within KPP files, leading to memory access violations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves improper boundary checking during the deserialization of project file data structures. When the software encounters a specially crafted KPP file, the parsing routine attempts to access memory locations beyond the allocated buffer boundaries, resulting in unpredictable behavior. This out-of-bounds read condition can potentially be exploited to trigger denial-of-service scenarios by causing application crashes or system instability. More critically, the vulnerability may enable arbitrary code execution if an attacker can manipulate the memory layout to inject and execute malicious code within the software context. The information disclosure aspect arises from the potential to read sensitive data from adjacent memory locations, exposing internal application state or system information that should remain protected.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-47136 extends significantly into industrial control system environments where PLC programming software serves as a critical component of operational technology infrastructure. In manufacturing and industrial automation contexts, the vulnerability poses substantial risk as it can be leveraged to disrupt production processes through denial-of-service conditions or potentially compromise entire control systems through arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability's exploitation requires user interaction through opening a malicious project file, making it particularly dangerous in environments where users may encounter untrusted project files or where social engineering attacks could be employed. The attack surface is particularly concerning for environments using legacy PLC systems where upgrading software versions may be delayed due to compatibility concerns or operational constraints.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-47136 should prioritize immediate software updates to versions that address the out-of-bounds read vulnerability, as this represents the most effective defense against exploitation. Organizations should implement strict file validation procedures and establish secure file handling protocols to prevent opening untrusted project files from unknown sources. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure of PLC programming environments to potentially malicious actors. Security awareness training for industrial control system operators is essential to prevent social engineering attacks that could lead to exploitation. Additionally, implementing application whitelisting and mandatory code signing for PLC programming software can help prevent execution of unauthorized or maliciously crafted project files. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-129, which addresses improper validation of array indices, and may map to ATT&CK technique T1203 for exploitation of software vulnerabilities in industrial control systems. Organizations should also consider deploying intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious file access patterns and maintain comprehensive incident response procedures to address potential exploitation attempts.