CVE-2024-52572 in Tecnomatix Plant Simulation
Summary
by MITRE • 11/18/2024
A vulnerability has been identified in Tecnomatix Plant Simulation V2302 (All versions < V2302.0018), Tecnomatix Plant Simulation V2404 (All versions < V2404.0007). The affected applications contain a stack based overflow vulnerability while parsing specially crafted WRL files. This could allow an attacker to execute code in the context of the current process. (ZDI-CAN-24486)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/11/2024
This vulnerability exists in Tecnomatix Plant Simulation software versions prior to specific patch levels, representing a critical stack-based buffer overflow condition that occurs during the processing of maliciously crafted WRL file formats. The flaw manifests when the application attempts to parse three-dimensional model data contained within VRML (Virtual Reality Modeling Language) files, specifically in the way the software handles memory allocation for string buffers during file parsing operations. The vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking mechanisms that fail to validate the length of input data before copying it into fixed-size memory buffers on the stack. This allows an attacker to overflow the allocated buffer space and potentially overwrite adjacent memory locations including return addresses and control data structures, which can lead to arbitrary code execution within the context of the currently running process.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability requires an attacker to craft a malicious WRL file that contains specially formatted data exceeding the predetermined buffer limits. When a user opens such a file within the vulnerable Plant Simulation application, the parsing routine executes without proper input validation, causing the stack overflow condition. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a high-severity issue in the Common Weakness Enumeration catalog. The attack vector is typically through social engineering techniques where users are tricked into opening malicious files, making this a privilege escalation vulnerability that can be exploited in a user context without requiring administrative privileges. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows for remote code execution, meaning attackers could potentially compromise systems from afar through file sharing mechanisms or malicious web content.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution capabilities, as it represents a significant threat to industrial automation and manufacturing environments where Tecnomatix Plant Simulation is commonly deployed. These applications are used for process simulation, plant layout design, and production planning in critical manufacturing operations, making them attractive targets for cyber adversaries seeking to disrupt production or gain access to sensitive operational data. The vulnerability affects both V2302 and V2404 product lines, indicating it is a persistent issue across multiple software versions, and the fact that it allows execution in the context of the current process means that any privileges the application runs with are potentially accessible to the attacker. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as well as T1068 for Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, since successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands with the same privileges as the Plant Simulation application. The vulnerability's presence in industrial simulation software also raises concerns about supply chain attacks, as malicious files could be introduced through legitimate software updates or third-party components.
Organizations utilizing Tecnomatix Plant Simulation software should immediately implement mitigations including applying the vendor-provided patches for versions V2302.0018 and V2404.0007, which contain the necessary buffer overflow protections and input validation improvements. Additionally, network segmentation should be implemented to limit access to systems running the vulnerable software, and user access controls should be enforced to restrict who can open potentially malicious files. File type restrictions should be implemented at network boundaries to prevent WRL files from entering the environment unless they originate from trusted sources. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file access patterns or attempts to execute code within the Plant Simulation application context. System administrators should also consider implementing application whitelisting policies that restrict execution of untrusted files and establish regular vulnerability scanning procedures to identify other potential software flaws in industrial control systems. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining updated industrial control system software and implementing proper security controls in manufacturing environments where such simulation tools are critical for operations.