CVE-2024-11611 AutomationDirect CVE debrief

Who should care

Organizations using AutomationDirect C-More EA9 HMI systems in industrial environments, particularly manufacturing, process control, and building automation sectors where these HMIs are deployed for operator interface and machine control.

Technical summary

The vulnerability exists in the file parsing functionality of AutomationDirect C-More EA9 Programming Software versions 6.78 and earlier. Insufficient input validation during file processing leads to memory corruption conditions that can be triggered by malformed files. Successful exploitation enables arbitrary code execution in the context of the application. The attack requires local access with user interaction (opening a malicious file), but the impact is severe with complete system compromise possible.

Defensive priority

HIGH

Recommended defensive actions

• Update C-More EA9 Programming Software to version 6.79 or later to remediate this vulnerability.
• If immediate patching is not feasible, disconnect affected workstations from external networks including internet and corporate LAN.
• Implement network segmentation using dedicated secure internal networks or air-gapped systems for programmable device communication.
• Restrict physical and logical workstation access to authorized personnel only.
• Deploy multi-factor authentication and enforce robust password policies for all user accounts.
• Implement application whitelisting to permit only pre-approved trusted software execution.
• Deploy antivirus or endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools for threat monitoring and mitigation.
• Configure host-based firewalls to block unauthorized access attempts.

Evidence notes

CISA CSAF advisory ICSA-24-340-01 provides the authoritative technical description and remediation guidance. CVSS 3.1 vector AV:L/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H indicates local attack vector with user interaction required, but successful exploitation yields complete confidentiality, integrity, and availability compromise.

Sources and references

Methodology and review provenance

AI-assisted synthesis based on stored public vulnerability evidence. System validation, approval state, and publication status do not by themselves establish human review of this revision. PatchSiren helps prioritize defensive review and does not prove exposure or remediation on any system.