CVE-2019-16675 : 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. By manipulating a project file in PC Worx or Config+, an attacker can potentially trigger an Out-of-bounds Read vulnerability and execute remote code. To exploit this vulnerability, the attacker must gain access to an authentic PC Worx or Config+ project file and modify its contents. Once the file has been manipulated, the attacker will need to replace the original file with the modified one on the programming workstation of the affected application.

Understanding CVE-2019-16675

This section provides insights into the nature and impact of the CVE-2019-16675 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2019-16675?

CVE-2019-16675 is a security vulnerability discovered in PHOENIX CONTACT PC Worx, PC Worx Express, and Config+ software versions up to 1.86. It allows an attacker to execute remote code by manipulating project files in the affected applications.

The Impact of CVE-2019-16675

The vulnerability in CVE-2019-16675 could lead to an Out-of-bounds Read scenario, enabling an attacker to execute remote code on the affected system. This could result in unauthorized access and potential compromise of sensitive data.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-16675

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE-2019-16675 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in PHOENIX CONTACT PC Worx, PC Worx Express, and Config+ versions up to 1.86 allows for an Out-of-bounds Read and potential remote code execution when a malicious actor manipulates project files within the software.

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

To exploit CVE-2019-16675, an attacker needs to:

Gain access to an authentic PC Worx or Config+ project file.
Modify the contents of the project file.
Replace the original file with the manipulated one on the programming workstation of the affected application.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to protect your systems from the CVE-2019-16675 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update PHOENIX CONTACT PC Worx, PC Worx Express, and Config+ to the latest patched versions.
Avoid opening project files from untrusted or unknown sources.
Monitor and restrict access to critical systems and files.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement regular security training for employees to recognize phishing attempts.
Employ network segmentation to limit the impact of potential breaches.
Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security updates and patches from PHOENIX CONTACT for the affected software versions.
Apply patches promptly to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.