CVE-2024-9054 in TimeProvider 4100
Summary
by MITRE • 10/04/2024
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command ('OS Command Injection'), Exposure of Sensitive Information to an Unauthorized Actor vulnerability in Microchip TimeProvider 4100 (Configuration modules) allows Command Injection.This issue affects TimeProvider 4100: from 1.0 before 2.4.7.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/05/2025
The CVE-2024-9054 vulnerability represents a critical operating system command injection flaw in Microchip TimeProvider 4100 configuration modules, specifically impacting versions prior to 2.4.7. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-77 category of Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an OS Command, which is a well-documented weakness in software security. The flaw manifests when the system fails to properly sanitize or escape user-supplied input before incorporating it into operating system commands, creating an environment where malicious actors can execute arbitrary code on the affected device.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the configuration module interface of the TimeProvider 4100 device, where input fields that accept user parameters are not adequately validated or sanitized. When an attacker submits specially crafted input containing command characters such as semicolons, ampersands, or pipes, these elements are interpreted by the underlying operating system as command separators rather than data. This allows attackers to inject malicious commands that execute with the privileges of the affected service or application, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in industrial control systems where TimeProvider 4100 devices are commonly deployed for time synchronization and network management purposes.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple command execution, as it creates exposure of sensitive information to unauthorized actors. Attackers who successfully exploit this flaw can access not only the device's configuration data but also potentially gain visibility into network topology, system credentials, and other sensitive operational parameters. The TimeProvider 4100 device typically operates in environments where it manages critical time synchronization services for industrial networks, making it an attractive target for adversaries seeking to disrupt operations or establish persistent access. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1071.004 for Application Layer Protocol: DNS, as attackers may use the compromised device to establish command and control channels or exfiltrate data through legitimate network protocols.
Organizations using Microchip TimeProvider 4100 devices in their industrial environments face significant risk from this vulnerability, as it can lead to complete system compromise and potential disruption of critical time-sensitive operations. The affected versions span from 1.0 through 2.4.6, indicating that a substantial portion of deployed devices may be vulnerable. Mitigation strategies should include immediate firmware updates to version 2.4.7 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the command injection vulnerability. Network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit exposure of these devices to untrusted networks, while monitoring systems should be deployed to detect potential exploitation attempts. Additionally, regular security assessments of industrial control systems should include verification of firmware versions and patch management procedures to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future.