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Siemens Tecnomatix RobotExpert

Plan Patch7.8ICS-CERT ICSA-21-103-12Apr 13, 2021
Attack VectorLocal
Auth RequiredNone
ComplexityLow
User InteractionRequired
Summary

Siemens Tecnomatix RobotExpert versions prior to V16.1 contain a memory corruption vulnerability in the CELL file parser. When a user opens a specially crafted CELL file, the vulnerability can cause the application to crash or potentially execute arbitrary code on the workstation running RobotExpert. The vulnerability is triggered during file parsing and does not require special privileges or authentication.

What this means
What could happen
A user tricked into opening a malicious CELL file in RobotExpert could allow an attacker to crash the application, execute arbitrary code on the engineering workstation, or extract sensitive data.
Who's at risk
Engineering teams using Siemens Tecnomatix RobotExpert for robot programming and simulation are affected. This impacts any organization using RobotExpert for manufacturing automation design, particularly those where engineering staff receive files from external partners or customers.
How it could be exploited
An attacker crafts a malicious CELL file and tricks a user (via email, file share, or social engineering) into opening it with Siemens RobotExpert. When the application parses the file, a buffer overflow or similar memory corruption vulnerability is triggered, allowing code execution on the workstation running RobotExpert.
Prerequisites
  • User must open a malicious CELL file (social engineering required)
  • Vulnerable version of RobotExpert installed (version < 16.1)
  • User must have access to open files in RobotExpert application
Low complexity attack (malformed file)Requires user interaction (opening file)Potential for code execution on engineering workstationCan affect intellectual property and confidentiality of designs stored on the workstation
Exploitability
Low exploit probability (EPSS 0.4%)
Affected products (1)
ProductAffected VersionsFix Status
Tecnomatix RobotExpert<V16.116.1
Remediation & Mitigation
0/4
Do now
0/2
WORKAROUNDDo not open or allow users to open CELL files from untrusted sources or unknown senders
HARDENINGEducate engineering staff not to click links or open attachments in unsolicited emails, and implement email security controls to filter suspicious attachments
Schedule — requires maintenance window
0/1

Patching may require device reboot — plan for process interruption

HOTFIXUpdate Siemens Tecnomatix RobotExpert to version 16.1 or later
Long-term hardening
0/1
HARDENINGIsolate engineering workstations running RobotExpert behind firewalls and from direct internet access
View full CISA ICS-CERT advisory
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