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Advantech OPC Server Buffer Overflow

Low RiskICS-CERT ICSA-11-279-01Jul 9, 2011
Summary

A buffer overflow vulnerability exists in Advantech OPC Server products (ADAM V3.01.012 and earlier, Modbus RTU/TCP V3.01.010 and earlier). An attacker with network access to the OPC Server can trigger this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted message, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution on the server. The vulnerability is in the input handling code that processes incoming requests and does not properly validate buffer boundaries.

What this means
What could happen
A buffer overflow in Advantech OPC Server could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on the OPC server, potentially disrupting communication between your SCADA system and field devices or causing the server to crash.
Who's at risk
Water authorities and municipal utilities using Advantech ADAM, Modbus RTU, or Modbus TCP OPC Servers for SCADA integration should be concerned. OPC Servers are critical bridges between enterprise systems and field devices; compromise could disrupt visibility and control of treatment processes, pumping systems, or distribution networks.
How it could be exploited
An attacker with network access to the OPC Server port could send a crafted message or request that overflows a buffer in memory, allowing injection of executable code. This would let the attacker gain control of the server process and execute arbitrary commands.
Prerequisites
  • Network access to the Advantech OPC Server
  • No authentication required
remotely exploitableno authentication requiredno patch availablebuffer overflow (CWE-119)
Exploitability
Moderate exploit probability (EPSS 2.0%)
Affected products (3)
3 EOL
ProductAffected VersionsFix Status
Advantech ADAM OPC Server: <V3.01.012<V3.01.012No fix (EOL)
Advantech Modbus RTU OPC Server: <V3.01.010<V3.01.010No fix (EOL)
Advantech Modbus TCP OPC Server: <V3.01.010.<V3.01.010.No fix (EOL)
Remediation & Mitigation
0/3
Do now
0/2
HARDENINGImplement network segmentation and firewall rules to restrict access to the OPC Server to only authorized engineering workstations and SCADA systems
HARDENINGMonitor OPC Server for unexpected crashes or behavior that may indicate exploitation attempts
Long-term hardening
0/1
WORKAROUNDEvaluate migration to a vendor OPC Server product that receives active security updates, or contact Advantech to determine if a supported replacement is available
View full CISA ICS-CERT advisory
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Advantech OPC Server Buffer Overflow - OTPulse