CVE-2019-12870 : What You Need to Know

A vulnerability has been found in PHOENIX CONTACT PC Worx versions up to 1.86, PC Worx Express versions up to 1.86, and Config+ versions up to 1.86. If an attacker gains access to an authentic PC Worx or Config+ project file, they can manipulate it, resulting in an Uninitialized Pointer and enabling remote code execution. The attacker must replace the original file with the manipulated one on the application programming workstation.

Understanding CVE-2019-12870

This CVE identifies a security flaw in PHOENIX CONTACT PC Worx, PC Worx Express, and Config+ software versions up to 1.86, allowing attackers to execute remote code by manipulating project files.

What is CVE-2019-12870?

This CVE refers to a vulnerability in PHOENIX CONTACT PC Worx, PC Worx Express, and Config+ software versions up to 1.86. Attackers can exploit this flaw by tampering with project files, leading to remote code execution.

The Impact of CVE-2019-12870

The vulnerability enables attackers to execute remote code by manipulating authentic project files, potentially compromising the integrity and security of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-12870

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by gaining access to an authentic PC Worx or Config+ project file, manipulating it to cause an Uninitialized Pointer, and enabling remote code execution.

Affected Systems and Versions

PHOENIX CONTACT PC Worx versions up to 1.86
PC Worx Express versions up to 1.86
Config+ versions up to 1.86

Exploitation Mechanism

The attacker needs to replace the original project file with the manipulated one on the application programming workstation to execute remote code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-12870 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the affected software to the latest version to patch the vulnerability.
Restrict access to project files to authorized personnel only.
Monitor file integrity to detect any unauthorized changes.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong access controls and authentication mechanisms.
Conduct regular security assessments and audits to identify vulnerabilities.
Educate users on secure coding practices and the importance of file integrity.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security updates and patches released by PHOjson dataX CONTACT for PC Worx, PC Worx Express, and Config+ software to address this vulnerability.