External risk intelligence

SQL Server Reporting Services Code Execution Vulnerability

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2020-0618

A vulnerability in Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services allows attackers to execute code by incorrectly handling page requests. This could affect data confidentiality, integrity, and service availability, posing a business risk.

3Halo Surface Signal

Deserialization

Microsoft Sql Server

201220142016

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2020-0618

SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) is a web-based reporting platform. While it is often deployed within internal corporate networks for business intelligence, it is also frequently exposed to the internet or extranets to allow remote users and partners to access reports, making external reachability plausible in various enterprise deployments.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services contains a vulnerability where it incorrectly handles page requests. This flaw can allow an authenticated attacker to execute code on the affected system. The potential impact includes unauthorized access and modification of data, disruption of services, and compromise of the reporting environment.

  • Vulnerable component: SQL Server Reporting Services
  • Core weakness: Incorrect handling of page requests
  • Main business impact: Remote code execution and data compromise

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services can be exploited through specific page requests, allowing an attacker to gain control. This vulnerability could impact the availability and integrity of data processed by the reporting services. Attackers could leverage this to execute arbitrary code on the affected server, potentially leading to further compromise of the business environment.

  • External network access required.
  • Authenticated attacker triggers vulnerability.
  • Attacker gains code execution.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability in Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services allows for remote code execution. Attackers could potentially gain control of the Report Server service account. The potential for widespread compromise makes this a significant business risk, suggesting it should be treated with high urgency.

  • Attackers likely need low skill.
  • Requires authenticated access.
  • Significant business risk; urgent.

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

A remote code execution vulnerability in Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services can allow an attacker to execute code on the affected system. This impacts the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected SQL Server instance. The vulnerability arises from the improper handling of page requests. Organizations should prioritize addressing this vulnerability to mitigate business risk.

  • Identify exposed SQL Server Reporting Services assets.
  • Restrict network access to affected services.
  • Apply vendor fixes and validate implementation.
  • Monitor for related suspicious activity.

Frequently asked questions

What is Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services?

Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services (SSRS) is a platform for creating, deploying, and managing reports. It's used by businesses to generate data-driven reports for analysis and decision-making.

What is the weakness in CVE-2020-0618?

CVE-2020-0618 is a remote code execution vulnerability caused by SSRS incorrectly handling specific page requests. This weakness is classified as a deserialization vulnerability (CWE-502).

How can an attacker exploit this vulnerability?

An attacker must first be authenticated to the SSRS environment. They can then trigger the vulnerability by sending specially crafted page requests to the affected server. This vulnerability is not triggered by simply accessing the reporting services.

Who needs to care about this threat?

Organizations running Microsoft SQL Server Reporting Services that are accessible from the internet or extranets should be concerned. This includes services used for remote reporting or by partners, as indicated by a 'Possible' Halo Surface Signal.

What's the first step to address this threat?

Begin by identifying any SQL Server Reporting Services instances that are exposed externally. Then, prioritize applying the official fixes provided by Microsoft for this vulnerability.

References