CVE-2024-51330 is a vulnerability in UltiMaker Cura software versions 4.41, 5.8.1, and earlier, which are widely used to manage Ultimaker 3D printers. The issue arises from insecure handling of the inter-process communication (IPC) channel between the Cura application and the CuraEngine process. This IPC mechanism is responsible for transmitting printing settings and G-code instructions that control the 3D printer's operations. An attacker with local high-level privileges can exploit this IPC channel to inject and execute arbitrary code, leveraging the localhost network stack to manipulate the communication. The vulnerability is linked to CWE-94, indicating that the software improperly controls code generation or execution, allowing code injection. Exploitation does not require user interaction but does require prior local access with elevated privileges, which limits remote exploitation but still poses a significant risk in environments where multiple users share systems or where local access can be gained through other means. The vulnerability impacts the integrity of the printing process, potentially allowing malicious code to alter print jobs, which could lead to defective or dangerous physical outputs. No patches or fixes have been published yet, and no exploits are known in the wild, but the risk remains for organizations using vulnerable versions of Cura in production environments.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-51330 is on the integrity of 3D printing operations managed by UltiMaker Cura software. Successful exploitation allows an attacker to execute arbitrary code locally, potentially altering G-code instructions and printing settings. This could result in the production of defective, unsafe, or maliciously altered 3D printed objects, which is critical in sectors relying on 3D printing for prototyping, manufacturing, or medical devices. While confidentiality and availability impacts are minimal, the integrity compromise could lead to significant operational disruptions, safety hazards, and financial losses. Organizations with shared workstations or insufficient local access controls are at higher risk. The requirement for high privileges limits the attack surface but does not eliminate the threat, especially in environments with insider threats or inadequate endpoint security. The lack of known exploits and patches means organizations must proactively manage risk to avoid potential future attacks.

To mitigate CVE-2024-51330, organizations should first restrict local access to systems running vulnerable versions of UltiMaker Cura, ensuring only trusted users have high-level privileges. Implement strict endpoint security controls, including application whitelisting and behavior monitoring, to detect unauthorized code execution attempts. Network segmentation should isolate 3D printing workstations from general user environments to reduce exposure. Regularly audit user permissions and remove unnecessary administrative rights. Until a patch is released, consider using alternative 3D printing management software or upgrading to versions confirmed to be unaffected. Additionally, monitor vendor communications for updates or patches addressing this vulnerability. Employing host-based intrusion detection systems (HIDS) can help identify suspicious IPC activity between Cura components. Finally, educate users about the risks of local privilege escalation and enforce strong authentication and access policies to minimize insider threats.