CVE-2024-52574 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 an out of bounds read past the end of an allocated structure while parsing specially crafted WRL files. This could allow an attacker to execute code in the context of the current process. (ZDI-CAN-24543)
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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 releases, representing a critical memory safety issue that could lead to arbitrary code execution. The flaw manifests during the parsing of WRL (World File) format files, which are commonly used for 3D model representation in industrial simulation environments. The out of bounds read condition occurs when the application processes malformed WRL files that contain structures extending beyond allocated memory boundaries, creating a potential entry point for malicious actors to compromise system integrity.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and memory management within the WRL file parser component of the Plant Simulation applications. When the software encounters specially crafted WRL files with malformed data structures, it fails to properly bounds-check array accesses or structure parsing operations, allowing memory reads to extend beyond the intended data boundaries. This memory safety issue directly maps to CWE-125, which describes out-of-bounds read conditions that can lead to information disclosure, system crashes, or potentially code execution. The vulnerability's exploitation potential is heightened by the fact that WRL files are commonly used in industrial automation contexts where users may encounter untrusted third-party models.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to execute arbitrary code within the context of the running Plant Simulation process. This presents significant risks in industrial environments where these simulation tools are used for critical manufacturing process modeling and planning. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive production data, disrupt simulation workflows, or potentially escalate privileges within the industrial control system environment. The vulnerability's relevance to ATT&CK technique T1203, which covers exploitation of remote services, suggests that network-based attacks could be feasible, particularly in environments where WRL files are shared or automatically downloaded.
Organizations using affected versions of Tecnomatix Plant Simulation should immediately implement mitigation strategies including patching to the latest available versions, which address the memory safety issues in the WRL file parser. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit exposure to untrusted file sources, while regular security assessments of industrial simulation environments should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability's classification as a remote code execution flaw underscores the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and implementing robust input validation controls for all file processing components in industrial automation software. System administrators should also consider implementing file type restrictions and sandboxing measures for WRL file handling to reduce the attack surface and prevent potential exploitation of similar memory safety issues.