CVE-2023-28653 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE-2023-28653 affects the Cscape and Cscape EnvisionRV software developed by Horner Automation. The vulnerability was reported by Michael Heinzl to CISA and was published on May 23, 2023.

Understanding CVE-2023-28653

This vulnerability arises due to insufficient validation of user-supplied data when parsing project files in the affected applications. This oversight can result in a use-after-free vulnerability, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code within the current process.

What is CVE-2023-28653?

The CVE-2023-28653 vulnerability in Cscape and Cscape EnvisionRV software occurs due to a lack of proper validation of user-supplied data during the parsing of project files. This oversight can lead to a use-after-free vulnerability, enabling attackers to execute malicious code within the current process.

The Impact of CVE-2023-28653

This vulnerability has a base severity score of 7.8 (High) according to CVSS v3.1 metrics. With a low attack complexity and local attack vector, the impact of CVE-2023-28653 includes high availability, confidentiality, and integrity impacts.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-28653

The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-416 (Use After Free) and has a CVSS v3.1 vector string of AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H, indicating the attack vector, complexity, required privileges, and impact details.

Vulnerability Description

The lack of proper validation of user-supplied data in Cscape and Cscape EnvisionRV software can lead to a use-after-free vulnerability, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code in the context of the current process.

Affected Systems and Versions

Cscape version v9.90 SP8 is affected.
Cscape EnvisionRV version v4.70 is affected.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating project files in a way that triggers the use-after-free vulnerability, potentially leading to the execution of unauthorized code.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-28653, Horner Automation has provided the following solutions:

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade Cscape to version v9.90 SP9.
Upgrade Cscape Envision RV to version v4.80.

Long-Term Security Practices

Maintain good security practices, such as regular software updates and patches, to mitigate the risk of similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Install the recommended software upgrades provided by Horner Automation to safeguard against the CVE-2023-28653 vulnerability and enhance the overall security posture of the affected applications.