GoAnywhere Managed File Transfer Remote Code Execution (RCE) Scanner

GoAnywhere Managed File Transfer is widely used for securing and automating file transfers between partners, vendors, and other entities. Many organizations in sectors like finance, healthcare, and government rely on GoAnywhere for their daily operations. The software offers encryption and auditing to ensure data integrity and compliance with regulations. It is designed to handle high volumes of sensitive information efficiently and securely. Users praise its intuitive interface and robust support for various protocols like SFTP, FTPS, and HTTPS. Through its centralized controls, administrators can easily manage user access and monitor all transfer activities.

The Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability found in GoAnywhere involves the use of Apache Log4j. This is a critical security flaw that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on the server hosting the application. The vulnerability can be triggered by crafting specific requests that exploit JNDI lookups in the logging functionality. This flaw has been extensively exploited in the wild, necessitating urgent patches and mitigations from affected organizations. Immediate response to such vulnerabilities is crucial to prevent unauthorized intrusions and potential data breaches. The importance of updating and monitoring vulnerable systems cannot be overstated.

Technical details of this RCE vulnerability highlight Apache Log4j as the main attack vector. Specifically, the vulnerability resides in how the software processes log data, allowing for external Lookup constructs to be injected. By exploiting these constructs, an attacker can traverse the network through remote hosts, executing commands on the GoAnywhere applications. The attack typically involves modifying login parameters, where injection via JNDI lookup results in command execution. Tools like interactsh can detect this type of activity, confirming the attack through DNS interactions. Protection requires disabling JNDI lookups and updating Log4j to a secure version.

Exploitation of this RCE vulnerability can lead to severe consequences including data theft, unauthorized access to sensitive files, and potential network compromise. Attackers could take control of affected servers, leading to further infections with malware or ransomware. The integrity and confidentiality of transmitted files would be jeopardized, damaging the affected organization's reputation and operations. Moreover, such vulnerabilities threaten compliance with data protection regulations like GDPR and HIPAA. Timely mitigation measures are crucial to prevent these outcomes and protect sensitive data.

REFERENCES

• https://www.goanywhere.com/cve-2021-44228-and-cve-2021-45046-goanywhere-mitigation-steps
• https://logging.apache.org/log4j/2.x/security.html
• https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2021-44228