CVE-2024-50928 is a vulnerability identified in Silicon Labs Z-Wave Series 700 and 800 modules running firmware version 7.21.1. The root cause is insecure permissions that permit attackers to alter the wakeup interval parameter of end devices as stored in the controller's memory. The wakeup interval controls how frequently an end device communicates with its controller, which is critical for maintaining reliable device connectivity and responsiveness. By changing this interval, an attacker can disrupt or degrade the communication link, effectively causing denial of service conditions for the affected devices. This vulnerability does not affect the confidentiality or integrity of data but impacts availability by interrupting device-controller interactions. Exploitation requires network access (attack vector: adjacent network) but does not require privileges or user interaction, making it relatively easy to exploit in accessible Z-Wave environments. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-281 (Improper Authentication), indicating that insufficient access controls allow unauthorized modification of device parameters. No patches or known exploits are currently reported, but the potential for disruption in smart home and IoT ecosystems is significant given the widespread use of Silicon Labs Z-Wave modules in these contexts.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-50928 is on the availability of Z-Wave end devices within smart home and IoT networks. By manipulating the wakeup interval, attackers can cause devices to become unresponsive or lose synchronization with their controllers, leading to service disruptions. This can affect critical IoT functions such as security sensors, lighting controls, and automation systems, potentially causing operational failures or safety concerns. Since the vulnerability does not compromise confidentiality or integrity, data theft or manipulation is unlikely. However, the disruption of device communication can degrade user experience and trust in smart home reliability. For organizations deploying Z-Wave-based IoT solutions at scale, this could translate into increased maintenance costs, customer dissatisfaction, and potential safety risks if security devices are impacted. The ease of exploitation without authentication and user interaction increases the threat level in environments where attackers can access the Z-Wave network, such as shared residential complexes or poorly segmented enterprise IoT deployments.

To mitigate CVE-2024-50928, organizations should implement the following specific measures: 1) Monitor Silicon Labs and device vendor advisories for firmware updates addressing this vulnerability and apply patches promptly once available. 2) Segment Z-Wave networks from other networks to limit attacker access, using VLANs or dedicated IoT gateways with strict access controls. 3) Employ network monitoring tools capable of detecting unusual changes in device wakeup intervals or communication patterns indicative of exploitation attempts. 4) Restrict physical and wireless access to Z-Wave controllers and devices to prevent unauthorized proximity-based attacks. 5) Where possible, configure controllers to enforce stricter authentication or permission checks on parameter changes, even if not natively supported, through custom firmware or vendor support. 6) Educate users and administrators on the importance of securing IoT devices and networks, emphasizing the risks of insecure permissions. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on network architecture, monitoring, and access control tailored to the specifics of this vulnerability.