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ICSA-20-315-01_OSIsoft PI Interface for OPC XML-DA

Act Now8.1ICS-CERT ICSA-20-315-01Nov 10, 2020
Attack VectorNetwork
Auth RequiredNone
ComplexityHigh
User InteractionNone needed
Summary

OSIsoft PI Interface for OPC XML-DA contains a buffer overflow vulnerability (CWE-121) in its handling of OPC XML-DA protocol messages. All versions prior to 1.7.3.x are affected. An attacker with network access can send a specially crafted message to trigger memory corruption and execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the PI Interface service. This service is typically used to integrate OPC data sources (PLCs, RTUs, field devices) into the OSIsoft PI System for real-time monitoring and historical data collection in industrial facilities.

What this means
What could happen
An attacker with network access to the PI Interface for OPC XML-DA could execute arbitrary code, potentially allowing them to modify process data, interrupt communications between the PI System and OPC servers, or compromise the integrity of historical data used for operations and compliance reporting.
Who's at risk
Water authorities and utilities using OSIsoft PI System for SCADA data collection and reporting. Specifically, any facility that relies on the PI Interface for OPC XML-DA to bridge OPC data sources (PLCs, RTUs, field devices) to the PI System for real-time monitoring and historical archiving should prioritize this fix.
How it could be exploited
An attacker on the network could send a specially crafted message to the PI Interface for OPC XML-DA service (likely port-based XML-DA protocol traffic). This triggers a buffer overflow or memory corruption flaw that allows the attacker to execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the PI Interface process, which typically has access to process data and control parameters.
Prerequisites
  • Network access to the PI Interface for OPC XML-DA service
  • Service must be running with default or typical configuration
  • No authentication required to trigger the vulnerability
Remotely exploitableNo authentication requiredBuffer overflow / memory corruption (CWE-121)High CVSS score (8.1)High EPSS score (66.7% exploit probability)No patch currently available
Exploitability
High exploit probability (EPSS 66.7%)
Affected products (1)
ProductAffected VersionsFix Status
PI Interface for OPC XML-DA: All< 1.7.3.x1.7.3.x or later
Remediation & Mitigation
0/4
Do now
0/1
WORKAROUNDRestrict network access to the PI Interface for OPC XML-DA service using firewall rules; allow connections only from known OPC servers and PI System components
Schedule — requires maintenance window
0/1

Patching may require device reboot — plan for process interruption

HOTFIXUpgrade PI Interface for OPC XML-DA to version 1.7.3.x or later
Long-term hardening
0/2
HARDENINGIsolate the PI Interface service and connected OPC servers from the business network and Internet using network segmentation and DMZ placement
HARDENINGIf remote access to the PI system is required, use a VPN with current security patches and restrict VPN users to read-only access where possible
View full CISA ICS-CERT advisory
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