Overview
CVE-2024-5539 describes an Access Control Bypass vulnerability identified in ALC WebCTRL and Carrier i-Vu. This vulnerability affects versions up to and including 8.5. A successful exploit could allow an attacker to bypass intended access restrictions within the web-based building automation server, potentially leading to the exposure of sensitive information and unauthorized control of building systems.
Technical Details
The vulnerability resides in the web application component of ALC WebCTRL and Carrier i-Vu. While specific technical details regarding the vulnerability’s root cause are not publicly available, the nature of an “Access Control Bypass” suggests a flaw in the application’s authentication or authorization mechanisms. This could involve:
- Improperly implemented permission checks.
- Vulnerabilities in session management.
- Exploitable flaws in the way user roles and privileges are handled.
- Direct object reference manipulation.
An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data or functionalities, potentially manipulating building systems without proper authentication.
CVSS Analysis
Currently, the CVSS score and severity rating for CVE-2024-5539 are listed as N/A. This indicates that a formal CVSS assessment has not yet been published or is being withheld. Given the potential impact of an Access Control Bypass in a building automation system, it is likely that the eventual CVSS score will be in the medium to high range, depending on the ease of exploitation and the scope of access gained.
Possible Impact
The potential impact of CVE-2024-5539 is significant, especially in critical infrastructure environments. Successful exploitation could lead to:
- Data Breach: Exposure of sensitive building information, including floor plans, security protocols, and energy usage data.
- System Manipulation: Unauthorized control of HVAC systems, lighting, security systems, and other building controls.
- Denial of Service: Disruption of building operations through manipulation of critical systems.
- Physical Security Compromise: Gaining unauthorized access to secure areas by manipulating door access controls.
These impacts could have severe consequences for building occupants, assets, and the overall security posture of the organization.
Mitigation and Patch Steps
To mitigate the risk associated with CVE-2024-5539, the following steps are recommended:
- Apply Available Patches: Immediately apply any security patches or updates released by ALC and Carrier for WebCTRL and i-Vu versions up to and including 8.5. Monitor Carrier’s product security advisories for the latest information.
- Network Segmentation: Isolate building automation systems from the broader corporate network to limit the potential impact of a breach.
- Strong Authentication: Implement strong password policies and multi-factor authentication (MFA) where available.
- Access Control Lists (ACLs): Review and enforce strict access control lists to limit access to building automation systems based on the principle of least privilege.
- Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS): Deploy network-based intrusion detection and prevention systems to monitor for and block malicious activity targeting building automation systems.
- Regular Security Audits: Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing to identify and address vulnerabilities in building automation systems.
