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IBHsoftec S7-SoftPLC CPX43 Heap-based Buffer Overflow Vulnerability

Act Now9.8ICS-CERT ICSA-16-306-02Aug 5, 2016
Attack VectorNetwork
Auth RequiredNone
ComplexityLow
User InteractionNone needed
Summary

IBHsoftec S7-SoftPLC versions prior to 4.12b contain a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability (CWE-122) in network packet handling. The vulnerability allows unauthenticated remote attackers to crash the PLC or execute arbitrary code by sending specially crafted network packets. This affects manufacturing facilities using S7-SoftPLC for process control automation. No patch is available from the vendor for affected versions.

What this means
What could happen
An attacker could send a specially crafted network packet to cause the S7-SoftPLC to crash or run arbitrary code, disrupting manufacturing processes or allowing takeover of the programmable logic controller.
Who's at risk
Manufacturing operations that use IBHsoftec S7-SoftPLC controllers for process automation, particularly in discrete manufacturing, packaging, and batch control systems. Any facility relying on this software-based PLC for critical production logic is affected.
How it could be exploited
An attacker on the network sends a malicious packet to the S7-SoftPLC that exploits a heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability. The overflow allows the attacker to overwrite heap memory and execute arbitrary code on the controller without needing credentials or user interaction.
Prerequisites
  • Network access to the S7-SoftPLC on the industrial network
  • No authentication credentials required
  • No special configuration needed
remotely exploitableno authentication requiredlow complexityno patch availableaffects safety systems
Exploitability
Low exploit probability (EPSS 0.7%)
Affected products (1)
ProductAffected VersionsFix Status
S7-SoftPLC: <4.12b<4.12bNo fix (EOL)
Remediation & Mitigation
0/4
Do now
0/1
HARDENINGImplement strict network access controls to restrict communication to the S7-SoftPLC to only authorized engineering workstations and control systems
Schedule — requires maintenance window
0/1

Patching may require device reboot — plan for process interruption

HARDENINGMonitor network traffic to the S7-SoftPLC for suspicious packets or access patterns
Mitigations - no patch available
0/2
S7-SoftPLC: <4.12b has reached End of Life. The vendor will not release a patch. Apply the following compensating controls:
HARDENINGIsolate S7-SoftPLC systems from the corporate network using network segmentation, firewall rules, or industrial demilitarized zones (DMZ) to limit exposure to untrusted networks
HARDENINGEvaluate upgrading to a newer PLC platform or software version if S7-SoftPLC versions prior to 4.12b are in use, as no patch is available from the vendor
View full CISA ICS-CERT advisory
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