Critical Vulnerabilities in Delta Electronics' CNCSoft-G2 Software: CISA Advisory

In an increasingly interconnected world, vulnerabilities in software play a pivotal role in cybersecurity risk. A recent advisory from CISA has cast a spotlight on critical flaws within Delta Electronics' CNCSoft-G2, an essential Human-Machine Interface (HMI) software used across various industrial sectors. Rated with a CVSS v4 score of 8.4, the vulnerabilities could enable attackers to execute code remotely with relatively low complexity.

Overview of Vulnerabilities​

CNCSoft-G2 is impacted significantly by several severe vulnerabilities:

1. Stack-Based Buffer Overflow (CWE-121): This occurs due to inadequate validation of user input lengths before copying to a fixed-length stack-based buffer.
   • CVE: CVE-2024-47962
   • CVSS v4 Score: 8.4
2. Out-of-Bounds Write (CWE-787): This vulnerability stems from insufficient validation of user data, allowing writes beyond allocated memory.
   • CVE: CVE-2024-47963
   • CVSS v4 Score: 8.4
3. Heap-Based Buffer Overflow (CWE-122): Similar to the stack overflow, this flaw is due to improper input validation before copying to heap-based memory.
   • CVE: CVE-2024-47964
   • CVSS v4 Score: 8.4
4. Out-of-Bounds Read (CWE-125): This can lead to sensitive data exposure since it allows reading memory outside the allocated buffer boundaries.
   • CVE: CVE-2024-47965
   • CVSS v4 Score: 8.4
5. Use of Uninitialized Variable (CWE-457): This flaw allows an attacker to exploit uninitialized memory prior to its access.
   • CVE: CVE-2024-47966
   • CVSS v4 Score: 8.4

The CNCSoft-G2 v2.1.0.10 and earlier editions are confirmed to be vulnerable, and these flaws allow attackers persuasive tactics such as social engineering to gain unauthorized access.

Risk Evaluation​

The potential impact of exploiting these vulnerabilities is staggering. Successful attacks could lead to unauthorized code execution within the context of the current process, essentially allowing the attacker to manipulate HMI functions while remaining undetected. This situation presents not only a direct risk to organizational integrity but also a potential escalation to national security concerns when industrial systems involved are crucial to public infrastructure.

Technical Analysis​

Specific vulnerabilities allow a scenario in which attackers might trick users into visiting malicious links or files. Each type of vulnerability has particularly frightening exploitation possibilities:

• The stack-based overflow can let an attacker gain control if an insider visits a malicious site, potentially executing harmful code.
• For the out-of-bounds write and read, similar tactics apply, making it evident how deeply rooted cybersecurity measures must become within operational technologies to withstand such threats.

Background and Research Contribution​

The vulnerabilities were reported to CISA by security researchers from Trend Micro Zero-Day Initiative—Bobby Gould, Fritz Sands, and Natnael Samson—who promptly handled these findings to promote awareness and prompt action against such prevalent threats.

Mitigation Strategies​

To combat these vulnerabilities, Delta Electronics recommends upgrading to CNCSoft-G2 v2.1.0.16 or later. Users are urged to implement the following CISA recommendations to minimize risks from social engineering:

• Avoid clicking on links or opening attachments from unsolicited emails.
• Regularly update cybersecurity training and ensure that all personnel are educated on the importance of information security.
• Regularly engage in risk assessments and impact analysis before deploying defensive measures.

Conclusion​

As the threat landscape continues to evolve, incidents like the Delta Electronics CNCSoft-G2 vulnerabilities highlight the acute need for vigilance in cybersecurity, especially within critical infrastructure. Organizations must prioritize software updates, implement robust training protocols, and stay informed about potential cybersecurity risks. The integration of comprehensive cybersecurity strategies is no longer optional—it’s a necessity.
For additional insights and latest updates on such vulnerabilities, refer to the full advisory published by CISA.
Source: CISA Delta Electronics CNCSoft-G2