Critical Vulnerabilities in Virtual Environments Using VMware vCenter Server

On November 18, 2024, an urgent alert was issued for two critical vulnerabilities in VMware vCenter Server. These vulnerabilities pose significant risks to organizations using vCenter Server to manage their virtual environments.

The criticality arises from the potential to exploit these flaws as a gateway to compromise not just the targeted vCenter instances but the broader networks and systems they manage. Attackers are actively exploiting these flaws, which could potentially allow them to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, disrupt services, and compromise the integrity of virtual environments. 

The vulnerabilities, identified as CVE-2024-38812 and CVE-2024-38813 both have a severity score of 9.8/10 on the CVSS scale and require network access to the vCenter server to be at risk of exploitation.

Attack methods and impact

The impact of these vulnerabilities has been significant, with reports of successful exploits in the wild.

• One of the vulnerabilities allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on the vCenter Server by exploiting a heap-overflow flaw in the Distributed Computing Environment / Remote Procedure Calls (DCE/RPC) protocol. This can lead to complete control over the affected system, enabling attackers to manipulate data, install malware, or disrupt services.
• The other security flaw allows attackers to escalate their privileges on the vCenter Server, potentially gaining administrative access and further compromising the system.

Once exploited, attackers can achieve root-level privileges, enabling them to compromise other connected infrastructure and applications managed by vCenter. The exploitation of these vulnerabilities can lead to severe operational disruptions, data breaches, and financial losses.

Our guidance

To protect against these vulnerabilities, organizations should immediately apply the latest patches provided by VMware. Broadcom has emphasized the importance of updating to the most recent versions of vCenter Server to ensure that all known vulnerabilities are addressed.

Additionally, organizations should:

• Review network configurations: Limit network access to vCenter Server to only trusted sources and implement network segmentation to reduce the attack surface.
• Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Strengthen access controls by requiring MFA for all administrative access to vCenter Server.
• Implement robust monitoring: Set up continuous monitoring and logging to detect any suspicious activity or unauthorized access attempts.
• Backup critical data: Regularly back up critical data and ensure that backups are stored securely and tested for integrity.

How we help

ACA Aponix^® can help your firm build your cybersecurity program to strengthen your line of defense against cyberattacks. Our services include:

• Aponix Protect^TM is a cybersecurity and technology risk solution that helps you build a comprehensive risk management program tailored to your business needs.
• ACA Vantage for Cyber offers comprehensive cyber health monitoring for portfolio companies. It combines advisory services, ComplianceAlpha^® technology, and RealRisk assessments to provide insights, mitigate risks, and enhance your competitive edge.
• Aponix Business Continuity Plan (BCP) Assessment provides a comprehensive evaluation of your organization’s current preparedness for disruptions. It identifies critical business functions, assesses potential risks, and offers actionable recommendations to strengthen resilience.

Reach out to your ACA consultant or contact us to find out how ACA can help secure your firm against cyber threats and comply with regulatory expectations.

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