CVE-2024-24955 in Productivity 3000 P3-550E
Summary
by MITRE • 05/28/2024
Several out-of-bounds write vulnerabilities exist in the Programming Software Connection FileSystem API functionality of AutomationDirect P3-550E 1.2.10.9. Specially crafted network packets can lead to heap-based memory corruption. An attacker can send malicious packets to trigger these vulnerabilities.This CVE tracks the arbitrary null-byte write vulnerability located in firmware 1.2.10.9 of the P3-550E at offset `0xb69fc`.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-24955 represents a critical out-of-bounds write condition within the AutomationDirect P3-550E programmable automation controller firmware version 1.2.10.9. This issue resides within the Connection FileSystem API functionality, which serves as a core component for network communication and file system operations in industrial control systems. The affected device operates in environments where cybersecurity is paramount, making such vulnerabilities particularly dangerous as they can compromise the integrity of critical infrastructure operations. The vulnerability manifests as a heap-based memory corruption issue that can be triggered through specially crafted network packets, indicating that the device lacks proper input validation mechanisms when processing external communications.
The technical flaw occurs at a specific memory offset of 0xb69fc within the firmware, where an arbitrary null-byte write vulnerability exists. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-787 weakness category, which describes out-of-bounds write conditions that can result in memory corruption and potentially lead to arbitrary code execution. The heap-based nature of the vulnerability indicates that the memory corruption occurs in the heap memory region rather than on the stack, making it particularly challenging to detect and exploit. The null-byte write aspect suggests that the attacker can manipulate memory contents by writing null characters to specific locations, which can corrupt data structures or overwrite critical program variables. This vulnerability directly maps to the ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for Windows Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it could enable an attacker to gain persistent access through command injection or privilege escalation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it creates potential pathways for attackers to compromise the entire industrial control system. In environments where the P3-550E serves as a critical component of manufacturing processes or infrastructure monitoring, an attacker could exploit this vulnerability to disrupt operations, cause physical damage, or gain unauthorized access to sensitive operational data. The network-based attack vector means that the vulnerability can be exploited remotely without requiring physical access to the device, significantly expanding the potential attack surface. The heap corruption could lead to system instability, application crashes, or even allow for privilege escalation attacks that could enable attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. This vulnerability particularly threatens industrial environments where operational technology (OT) systems operate in closed-loop networks with limited security monitoring capabilities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-24955 should prioritize immediate firmware updates from AutomationDirect, as this represents the most effective solution to address the root cause of the vulnerability. Network segmentation and access control measures should be implemented to limit exposure of the affected device to untrusted networks, utilizing firewalls and intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious network traffic patterns. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by restricting network access to only necessary administrative interfaces and services. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other industrial control systems within the network infrastructure. Additionally, implementing network monitoring solutions that can detect anomalous packet patterns or unusual memory access behaviors can help identify exploitation attempts before they succeed. Organizations should also consider implementing industrial cybersecurity frameworks such as NIST SP 800-82 or IEC 62443 to establish comprehensive security controls that address both the immediate vulnerability and broader operational technology security requirements.