CVE-2018-5440 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2018-5440, a buffer overflow vulnerability in 3S-Smart CODESYS Web Server on Microsoft Windows. Find out how attackers can execute arbitrary code or cause denial-of-service.
A vulnerability related to buffer overflow in 3S-Smart CODESYS Web Server has been identified, affecting all CODESYS web servers running on Microsoft Windows. An attacker can exploit this issue to execute arbitrary code or cause a denial-of-service condition.
Understanding CVE-2018-5440
This CVE involves a buffer overflow vulnerability in the 3S-Smart CODESYS Web Server, potentially allowing attackers to execute malicious code or crash the server.
What is CVE-2018-5440?
The vulnerability in the CODESYS Web Server allows attackers to trigger a buffer overflow by sending a specially crafted request, leading to the execution of arbitrary code or a denial-of-service situation.
The Impact of CVE-2018-5440
Exploiting this vulnerability can result in attackers executing arbitrary code on the web server or causing a denial-of-service condition by crashing the server.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-5440
This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
A Stack-based Buffer Overflow issue was discovered in the 3S-Smart CODESYS Web Server, affecting Microsoft Windows-based CODESYS web servers running specific versions. Crafted requests can trigger buffer overflows, enabling code execution or server crashes.
Affected Systems and Versions
- All CODESYS web servers running on Microsoft Windows (including WinCE)
- Stand-alone Version 2.3 or as part of the CODESYS runtime system prior to Version V1.1.9.19
Exploitation Mechanism
- Attackers exploit the buffer overflow by sending specially crafted requests
- This can lead to the execution of arbitrary code on the web server or cause a denial-of-service condition
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2018-5440 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Apply vendor patches and updates promptly
- Implement network segmentation to limit exposure
- Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activities
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update and patch software and systems
- Conduct security assessments and penetration testing
- Educate users and administrators on secure coding practices
Patching and Updates
- Update to CODESYS runtime system Version V1.1.9.19 or later
- Apply security patches provided by the vendor to address the vulnerability