GOOSE Parser Heap Out-of-Bounds Read in Subscriber

Executive Summary

This vulnerability is an off-by-one error in the GOOSE parser that processes network messages. A single unauthenticated Layer-2 multicast frame can trigger incorrect buffer position advancement, leading to a heap out-of-bounds read. This causes the subscriber process to terminate and results in a denial-of-service.

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Detection Guidance

This vulnerability can be detected by monitoring for unexpected GOOSE multicast frames on the process bus. Use network sniffing tools like tcpdump or Wireshark to capture and analyze GOOSE traffic for malformed messages. Check subscriber logs for crashes or denial-of-service events after receiving GOOSE frames.

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Impact Analysis

The vulnerability can cause your system to crash and stop processing GOOSE messages, leading to loss of critical network functionality. Since it requires only a single unauthenticated frame, attackers on the local network can exploit it remotely without credentials.

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Compliance Impact

This vulnerability causes a denial-of-service by terminating the subscriber process via a heap out-of-bounds read triggered by a single unauthenticated multicast frame. It does not directly impact data confidentiality or integrity but may disrupt critical infrastructure operations, potentially affecting compliance with standards requiring availability (e.g., HIPAA for healthcare systems). GDPR compliance could be indirectly affected if the DoS impacts systems processing personal data.

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Mitigation Strategies

Update or patch the GOOSE parser software to the latest version that fixes the off-by-one boundary-handling flaw. Isolate affected systems on the process bus to limit exposure to Layer-2 multicast frames. Monitor network traffic for unusual GOOSE messages that could trigger the vulnerability.

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