CVE-2022-28314
📋 TL;DR
This is a buffer overflow vulnerability in Bentley MicroStation CONNECT that allows remote code execution when users open malicious IFC files. Attackers can exploit this to run arbitrary code with the same privileges as the current user. Users of affected Bentley MicroStation versions are at risk.
💻 Affected Systems
- Bentley MicroStation CONNECT
📦 What is this software?
View by Bentley
⚠️ Risk & Real-World Impact
Worst Case
Complete system compromise via arbitrary code execution leading to data theft, ransomware deployment, or lateral movement within the network.
Likely Case
Local privilege escalation leading to data exfiltration or malware installation on the affected workstation.
If Mitigated
Limited impact if proper network segmentation and least privilege principles are enforced, potentially containing the exploit to a single workstation.
🎯 Exploit Status
Exploitation requires user interaction to open malicious IFC file. The vulnerability is well-documented with public advisories, increasing likelihood of weaponization.
🛠️ Fix & Mitigation
✅ Official Fix
Patch Version: 10.16.02.35 and later
Vendor Advisory: https://www.bentley.com/en/common-vulnerability-exposure/be-2022-0006
Restart Required: Yes
Instructions:
1. Download the latest version from Bentley's official website or update through Bentley CONNECTION Client. 2. Run the installer with administrative privileges. 3. Restart the system after installation completes.
🔧 Temporary Workarounds
Disable IFC file association
windowsRemove IFC file type association with MicroStation to prevent automatic opening
Windows: Control Panel > Default Programs > Associate a file type or protocol with a program > Remove .ifc association
Implement application whitelisting
allRestrict execution of MicroStation to trusted locations only
🧯 If You Can't Patch
- Implement strict email filtering to block IFC attachments from untrusted sources
- Use network segmentation to isolate MicroStation workstations from critical systems
🔍 How to Verify
Check if Vulnerable:
Check MicroStation version via Help > About. If version is 10.16.02.34 or earlier, the system is vulnerable.Check Version:
In MicroStation: Help > About or check program properties in WindowsVerify Fix Applied:
Verify version is 10.16.02.35 or later in Help > About dialog.📡 Detection & Monitoring
Log Indicators:
- Application crashes in MicroStation with IFC file processing
- Unusual process creation from MicroStation executable
Network Indicators:
- Unexpected outbound connections from MicroStation workstations
- IFC file downloads from untrusted sources
SIEM Query:
EventID=1000 OR EventID=1001 Source='MicroStation' AND (Keywords='IFC' OR Keywords='crash')