External risk intelligence

VMware vCenter Server Arbitrary File Upload Vulnerability

CVE advisoryKnown Exploit

CVE-2021-22005

A critical vulnerability in VMware vCenter Server allows unauthorized network access to upload a malicious file, leading to code execution. This poses a significant risk to affected organizations, potentially compromising server integrity and availability. The vulnerability is exploitable via network access to port 443

4Halo Surface Signal

Path Traversal

Vmware Cloud Foundation

3.0 to before 5.06.56.77.0

External exposure likelihood

Halo Surface Signal score for CVE-2021-22005

The vulnerability affects vCenter Server, which is commonly deployed as an administrative gateway and management service. While ideally restricted to internal networks, these appliances are frequently exposed to the internet or accessible via edge gateways, making them a common target for network-based access to the management interface on port 443.

Horizon Alert

Summary of the vulnerability and why it matters

The vCenter Server's Analytics service contains a critical vulnerability. A malicious actor with network access could exploit this flaw to upload a specially crafted file, potentially leading to code execution on the vCenter Server. This could create significant business risk for affected organizations.

  • Vulnerable vCenter Server Analytics service
  • Arbitrary file upload flaw
  • Potential for code execution on servers

Attack Path

How an attacker could exploit the issue

A malicious actor with network access to vCenter Server can exploit a file upload vulnerability in the Analytics service. This allows for the execution of code on the server. The vulnerability is in the Analytics service of vCenter Server.

  • Network access to port 443 required.
  • Malicious actor uploads a crafted file.
  • Attacker achieves code execution.

Live Threat

Current exploitation, exposure, and threat context

This vulnerability presents a significant risk to organizations. A threat actor with network access could exploit this flaw to upload a malicious file, leading to the execution of arbitrary code on the affected server. This could result in a complete compromise of the vCenter Server, impacting critical infrastructure management and potentially leading to widespread disruption. The presence of this CVE on the known exploited vulnerabilities catalog indicates it is a credible and active threat.

  • Likely attacker skill level: Low
  • Required access or conditions: Network access to port 443
  • Business risk or urgency: High

Priority actions

Operational Fix

Recommended remediation, mitigation, and detection steps

A critical vulnerability exists in the VMware vCenter Server Analytics service, allowing for remote code execution through file upload. This could enable attackers to compromise the vCenter Server, impacting its availability and the integrity of managed systems and data. The identified vulnerability is considered external-facing and has been exploited in known campaigns.

  • Find exposed vCenter Server assets.
  • Isolate or reduce exposure of affected systems.
  • Apply vendor fixes and validate.
  • Monitor for related incidents.

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of VMware vCenter Server in a virtualized environment?

VMware vCenter Server serves as a centralized management platform for multiple VMware ESXi hosts and their associated virtual machines. It empowers administrators to deploy, monitor, and manage virtualized infrastructures efficiently, offering robust features for automation, resource allocation, and ensuring high availability of services.

What type of weakness does CVE-2021-22005 represent in VMware vCenter Server?

CVE-2021-22005 is a critical vulnerability identified in the Analytics service of VMware vCenter Server. This weakness is classified as an arbitrary file upload vulnerability (CWE-22), enabling an unauthorized user to upload a specifically designed file to the affected server.

How can an attacker exploit the CVE-2021-22005 vulnerability?

An attacker with network access to vCenter Server on port 443 can exploit this arbitrary file upload vulnerability. By uploading a specially crafted file, the attacker can achieve code execution on the vCenter Server, potentially leading to a full compromise.

What is the relevance of CVE-2021-22005 given its external exposure and attack vector?

The vulnerability is externally exposed and accessible via network to port 443, making it a target for remote exploitation. The ability for an attacker with network access to upload files and execute code presents a significant risk to business operations, underscoring the urgency for remediation.

What practical steps should be taken to address the VMware vCenter Server vulnerability?

Organizations should identify any exposed vCenter Server assets, isolate or limit the network exposure of affected systems, and promptly apply vendor-provided updates. Verifying the successful application of patches and monitoring for related suspicious activities are also crucial response actions.

References