CVE-2019-14463 : Security Advisory and Response

A vulnerability was identified in versions of libmodbus prior to 3.0.7 and 3.1.x prior to 3.1.5. This vulnerability allows an unauthorized read beyond the boundaries in the MODBUS_FC_WRITE_MULTIPLE_REGISTERS case, also known as VD-1301.

Understanding CVE-2019-14463

This CVE pertains to a specific vulnerability found in libmodbus versions before 3.0.7 and 3.1.x before 3.1.5.

What is CVE-2019-14463?

CVE-2019-14463 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability in the MODBUS_FC_WRITE_MULTIPLE_REGISTERS case within libmodbus versions prior to 3.0.7 and 3.1.x before 3.1.5.

The Impact of CVE-2019-14463

This vulnerability could allow unauthorized access beyond the intended boundaries, potentially leading to security breaches and unauthorized data retrieval.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-14463

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue in libmodbus versions before 3.0.7 and 3.1.x before 3.1.5 involves an out-of-bounds read in the MODBUS_FC_WRITE_MULTIPLE_REGISTERS case, also known as VD-1301.

Affected Systems and Versions

Versions of libmodbus prior to 3.0.7
Versions of libmodbus 3.1.x prior to 3.1.5

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by unauthorized users to read data beyond the intended boundaries in the MODBUS_FC_WRITE_MULTIPLE_REGISTERS case.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2019-14463 requires specific actions to mitigate the risk.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update libmodbus to version 3.0.7 or 3.1.5, which contain fixes for this vulnerability.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity that could indicate exploitation of the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update software and libraries to the latest versions to ensure security patches are applied promptly.
Implement access controls and authentication mechanisms to restrict unauthorized access to systems.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by libmodbus to address vulnerabilities like CVE-2019-14463.