PatchSiren

PatchSiren cyber security CVE debrief

CVE-2024-11156 Rockwell Automation CVE debrief

A high-severity out-of-bounds write vulnerability in Rockwell Automation Arena simulation software allows arbitrary code execution when a user opens a maliciously crafted DOE file. The vulnerability was disclosed by CISA on December 10, 2024, with the advisory subsequently updated twice—most recently on February 3, 2026—to add related CVEs and refine affected product listings. The flaw stems from improper memory boundary handling during DOE file processing, enabling threat actors to write beyond allocated memory buffers. Exploitation requires user interaction: a legitimate user must execute the malicious code, typically by opening a tainted file. This attack vector aligns with common social engineering tactics targeting industrial control system environments. Rockwell Automation has released version 16.20.09 as a definitive fix. Organizations unable to immediately patch should implement strict file handling controls and user awareness training to reduce exposure.

Vendor
Rockwell Automation
Product
Arena
CVSS
HIGH 7.8
CISA KEV
Not listed in stored evidence
Original CVE published
2024-12-10
Original CVE updated
2026-02-03
Advisory published
2024-12-10
Advisory updated
2026-02-03

Who should care

Organizations using Rockwell Automation Arena for discrete event simulation in manufacturing, logistics, or process engineering environments. Security teams defending OT/ICS networks where Arena workstations bridge IT and operational technology domains. Engineering departments with file exchange practices involving external partners or contractors. Incident response teams tracking ICS-focused threat actor tooling and social engineering campaigns.

Technical summary

The vulnerability exists in Arena's handling of DOE (Design of Experiments) files, where insufficient bounds checking permits writes beyond allocated memory regions. The CVSS 3.1 score of 7.8 reflects a local attack vector with low attack complexity, no privilege requirements, but mandatory user interaction. Successful exploitation yields high impact across confidentiality, integrity, and availability dimensions. The attack chain typically involves social engineering to deliver a malicious DOE file, followed by user execution. Arena versions 16.20.03 and earlier are confirmed affected. The February 2026 advisory update added CVE-2025-6376 and CVE-2025-6377 as related vulnerabilities, suggesting ongoing security review of the Arena codebase.

Defensive priority

high

Recommended defensive actions

  • Upgrade Rockwell Automation Arena to version 16.20.09 or later to remediate the out-of-bounds write vulnerability
  • Restrict Arena model file sources to trusted origins only; do not load untrusted DOE files
  • Hold the Control key when opening Arena files to prevent automatic VBA stream execution
  • Implement Rockwell Automation's documented security best practices for industrial control systems
  • Apply Stakeholder-Specific Vulnerability Categorization (SSVC) to prioritize remediation based on operational environment risk
  • Conduct user awareness training on recognizing and avoiding malicious file attachments in engineering workstations

Evidence notes

Vulnerability details sourced from CISA CSAF advisory ICSA-24-345-06, with vendor confirmation from Rockwell Automation. CVSS 3.1 vector AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H indicates local attack vector with user interaction required but no privileges needed, resulting in complete confidentiality, integrity, and availability impact. CWE-787 (Out-of-bounds Write) classification confirmed through advisory references.

Official resources

2024-12-10