CVE-2024-24958 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 `0xb6bdc`.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-24958 represents a critical out-of-bounds write flaw within the Programming Software Connection FileSystem API of AutomationDirect P3-550E industrial control device running firmware version 1.2.10.9. This issue manifests as a heap-based memory corruption vulnerability that can be exploited through specially crafted network packets. The flaw specifically occurs at memory offset 0xb6bdc, where an arbitrary null-byte write operation can be performed, potentially leading to system instability or unauthorized code execution. The affected device operates within industrial environments where reliability and security are paramount, making this vulnerability particularly concerning for critical infrastructure deployments.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the FileSystem API functionality of the device's firmware. When processing network packets, the system fails to properly bounds-check data being written to memory locations, allowing an attacker to write beyond allocated memory boundaries. This heap-based memory corruption occurs at offset 0xb6bdc, which represents a specific memory location within the device's heap memory space. The vulnerability is classified as a heap overflow condition that can be triggered by sending maliciously constructed network traffic to the device. According to CWE standards, this corresponds to CWE-787: Out-of-bounds Write, which is a well-documented class of vulnerabilities that can lead to arbitrary code execution or system crashes. The ATT&CK framework would categorize this under T1210: Exploitation of Remote Services, as it leverages network-based attack vectors to compromise system integrity.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple memory corruption, potentially allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to industrial control systems that are critical for manufacturing processes, power generation, and other infrastructure operations. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially execute arbitrary code on the device, modify operational parameters, or disrupt industrial processes. The P3-550E is designed for industrial automation environments where system stability is crucial, and such memory corruption issues can lead to production downtime, safety hazards, or even physical damage to equipment. The remote nature of the attack vector means that exploitation can occur from any network location, making it particularly dangerous for devices that are not properly isolated from external networks. Organizations using this device in operational technology environments face significant risk, as the vulnerability could be exploited by adversaries targeting industrial control systems, with potential implications for supply chain security and overall operational resilience.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate firmware updates from AutomationDirect, as the vendor has likely released patches addressing this specific memory corruption issue. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of the affected device to untrusted networks, while monitoring systems should be deployed to detect anomalous network traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The implementation of intrusion detection systems specifically designed for industrial control environments can help identify and prevent exploitation of this type of vulnerability. Organizations should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of their industrial control systems to identify other potentially affected devices running similar firmware versions. Regular security updates and patch management procedures should be established to ensure that all industrial control devices receive timely security updates, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining current firmware versions in industrial environments where security is often overlooked in favor of operational continuity.