CVE-2024-24963 in Productivity 3000 P3-550E
Summary
by MITRE • 05/28/2024
A stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability exists in the Programming Software Connection FileSelect functionality of AutomationDirect P3-550E 1.2.10.9. A specially crafted network packet can lead to stack-based buffer overflow. An attacker can send an unauthenticated packet to trigger this vulnerability.This CVE tracks the stack-based buffer overflow that occurs at offset `0xb6e84` of v1.2.10.9 of the P3-550E firmware.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/13/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-24963 represents a critical stack-based buffer overflow within the AutomationDirect P3-550E Programmable Logic Controller firmware version 1.2.10.9. This flaw specifically manifests within the Connection FileSelect functionality of the programming software component, creating a significant security risk for industrial control systems. The vulnerability operates at a precise memory offset of 0xb6e84 within the firmware binary, making it a targeted exploit point for malicious actors. The affected device is a programmable logic controller used in industrial automation environments where security is paramount for operational continuity and safety.
The technical implementation of this buffer overflow occurs when the system processes network packets through the Connection FileSelect functionality without adequate input validation or bounds checking. The flaw allows an attacker to craft a malicious packet that exceeds the allocated stack buffer space, causing a stack overflow condition that can overwrite adjacent memory locations. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-121 Stack-based Buffer Overflow, which is classified as a critical weakness in software security. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires no authentication to exploit, making it accessible to any network entity that can reach the device. The attack vector operates over the network protocol used by the P3-550E device, typically leveraging TCP or UDP ports that are commonly exposed in industrial environments.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, potentially allowing for complete system compromise and unauthorized access to industrial control processes. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code on the affected device, potentially leading to disruption of industrial processes, data manipulation, or even physical damage to industrial equipment. The implications are particularly severe in environments where these controllers manage critical infrastructure such as manufacturing processes, power generation, or water treatment facilities. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 Command and Scripting Interpreter: Python and T1068 Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, as the successful exploitation would likely involve executing malicious code with elevated privileges. The lack of authentication requirements makes this vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors targeting industrial control systems, as it eliminates the need for credential compromise or additional attack vectors.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-24963 must address both immediate and long-term security considerations. The primary recommendation involves applying the vendor-provided firmware update that patches the buffer overflow vulnerability. Organizations should also implement network segmentation to isolate industrial control systems from general network traffic, reducing the attack surface for unauthenticated exploits. Network access control lists and firewalls should be configured to restrict access to the specific ports used by the P3-550E device, preventing unauthorized packet injection. Additionally, implementing intrusion detection systems that monitor for suspicious network traffic patterns can help identify potential exploitation attempts. Security monitoring should include logging of all connection attempts and network packets to the affected device, as well as regular vulnerability assessments of industrial control system components. Organizations should also consider implementing network behavioral analysis tools that can detect anomalous traffic patterns consistent with exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date firmware and implementing robust security controls in industrial environments, as these systems often operate with limited security awareness and may not receive regular updates. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical need for industrial cybersecurity practices that align with NIST Cybersecurity Framework and IEC 62443 standards for protecting industrial automation and control systems.