CVE-2018-14797 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

Emerson DeltaV DCS versions 11.3.1, 12.3.1, 13.3.0, 13.3.1, and R5 are vulnerable to arbitrary code execution due to a specially crafted DLL file being loaded as a valid internal DLL.

Understanding CVE-2018-14797

Versions of Emerson DeltaV DCS with the identified vulnerability and its potential impact.

What is CVE-2018-14797?

The vulnerability in Emerson DeltaV DCS versions allows a malicious DLL file to be inserted into the search path and executed as a legitimate internal DLL, potentially leading to arbitrary code execution.

The Impact of CVE-2018-14797

The vulnerability could be exploited by attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems, compromising their integrity and confidentiality.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-14797

Insight into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw arises from the improper loading of DLL files, enabling a specially crafted DLL to be loaded and executed as a valid internal DLL.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: DeltaV DCS
Vendor: Emerson
Vulnerable Versions: v11.3.1, v12.3.1, v13.3.0, v13.3.1, R5

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability allows threat actors to place a malicious DLL file in the search path, tricking the system into loading it as a legitimate DLL, leading to arbitrary code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Measures to address and prevent the CVE-2018-14797 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Apply vendor-supplied patches or updates promptly.
Monitor system logs for any suspicious DLL loading activities.
Implement strict DLL loading policies to prevent unauthorized DLL execution.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and patch all software and systems to mitigate known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and audits to identify and remediate potential weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

Emerson may release patches or updates to address the vulnerability; ensure timely implementation to secure the system.