VMware vRealize Operations Manager Remote Code Execution Scanner

VMware vRealize Operations Manager is an IT management tool used by enterprises to optimize, plan, and scale their data centers. It provides operations management that includes infrastructure monitoring, capacity optimization, compliance management, and analytics-driven insights. The software is widely used by IT administrators and business managers to ensure the efficient operation of various IT components and environments. Companies use it to streamline processes, prevent issues before they affect operations, and maintain powerful system performance. The software allows for a comprehensive view of the data center processes and performance metrics, enabling improved decision-making and operational efficiencies.

The Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on a target system or application. In this specific scenario, the vulnerability is within the Apache Log4j library used by VMware vRealize Operations Manager. This allows attackers to gain unauthorized access and potentially execute malicious commands on the systems, exploiting the flawed JNDI logging feature. As this flaw can be remotely exploited without authentication, it poses a severe security threat to any organization using the affected versions of the software. The vulnerability risks exposing sensitive data, compromising user accounts, and may lead to further penetration into a network.

The vulnerability primarily arises from the Apache Log4j logging utility, which vRealize Operations Manager uses for processing log data. The vulnerable endpoint is accessed via HTTP POST requests made to the `/ui/login.action`. Within this HTTP request, attackers use constructed payloads to manipulate strings logged by the server, triggering the exploit. By embedding JNDI lookups within log message fields, attackers can force the application to contact malicious servers and execute the code retrieved from these servers. The vulnerable parameter is the username field, which when exploited, initiates unintended connections and code execution.

Exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to various adverse effects, including unauthorized data disclosure, server compromise, and potential loss of control over the system. Malicious actors could implant malware, steal sensitive information, manipulate stored data, or disrupt operations through targeted attacks. If unmitigated, this can cause significant reputational damage, financial loss, and breach of regulatory compliance. The extent of damage depends on the attacker's objectives, ranging from denial of service conditions to complete takeover of the application and connected systems.

REFERENCES

• https://www.vmware.com/security/advisories/VMSA-2021-0028.html
• https://logging.apache.org/log4j/2.x/security.html
• https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2021-44228