VMware Site Recovery Manager Remote Code Execution Scanner

VMware Site Recovery Manager is a disaster recovery and business continuity solution used by enterprises to protect virtual infrastructure. It automates the orchestration of recovery or planned migration of virtual machines between sites. Commonly used in environments utilizing VMware's suite of products, it assists in disaster recovery preparedness and compliance. Businesses in need of rapid recovery after a disaster widely adopt it. These organizations often require synchronized data centers and failover capabilities for continued operations. Its adoption spans sectors from finance and healthcare to manufacturing.

The vulnerability exploited in this scenario involves the Apache Log4j framework, a popular Java-based logging utility. In certain configurations, Log4j allows remote code execution by improperly handling input logged in Java Naming and Directory Interface (JNDI). Identified as a critical vulnerability, attackers leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. This bug can be triggered without previous authentication, a factor elevating its risk profile. Widespread exploitation occurred due to the extensive use of Log4j in various applications, leading to intensive patching efforts globally. The vulnerability primarily impacts Java applications that use vulnerable versions of the Log4j library.

The technical details of this vulnerability focus on exploiting the JNDI lookup feature within Log4j. When logging user-controlled input, this functionality can be misused to perform remote lookups, executing malicious code from an LDAP or other server. In VMware Site Recovery Manager, the attack vector is the OAuth2 login endpoint, which becomes vulnerable due to this improper input handling. Attackers can construct requests that invoke the JNDI mechanism, thereby exploiting the system remotely. The vulnerability is identifiable through DNS interactions, confirming the execution of code in resolving domains controlled by attackers. This loophole emphasizes the importance of proper logging configurations to safeguard against unsolicited entries.

When exploited, the vulnerability in VMware Site Recovery Manager can have severe consequences. Malicious actors can execute arbitrary code, leading to unauthorized access and control over the affected systems. This may result in data breaches, system manipulation, or deployment of ransomware. Such a breach could disrupt critical business operations, damage reputation, and result in financial losses. Organizations relying on this service for disaster recovery might face significant downtime if systems are compromised. The pervasive nature of Log4j in applications amplifies these risks, necessitating urgent attention and remediation.

REFERENCES

• https://www.horizon3.ai/the-long-tail-of-log4shell-exploitation/
• https://logging.apache.org/log4j/2.x/security.html
• https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2021-44228