Dell RecoverPoint for Virtual Machines, versions prior to 6.0.3.1 HF1, contain a hardcoded credential vulnerability. This is considered critical as an unauthenticated remote attacker with knowledge of the hardcoded credential could potentially exploit this vulnerability leading to unauthorized access to the underlying operating system and root-level persistence. Dell recommends that customers upgrade or apply one of the remediations as soon as possible.
Dell RecoverPoint for Virtual Machines versions prior to 6.0.3.1 HF1 are vulnerable to a critical hardcoded credential vulnerability. An unauthenticated remote attacker can leverage this to gain unauthorized access to the underlying operating system, potentially achieving root-level persistence and complete system compromise. Immediate patching or remediation is crucial to mitigate this severe risk.
Step 1: Reconnaissance: The attacker identifies a vulnerable Dell RecoverPoint for Virtual Machines instance, likely through network scanning or information gathering.
Step 2: Credential Extraction: The attacker obtains the hardcoded credential. This could involve reverse engineering the application, analyzing network traffic, or exploiting other vulnerabilities to access configuration files.
Step 3: Authentication: The attacker uses the hardcoded credential to authenticate to the RecoverPoint system. This authentication bypasses any intended security controls.
Step 4: Privilege Escalation: Upon successful authentication, the attacker gains access to the system with elevated privileges, potentially including root or administrator access.
Step 5: System Compromise: The attacker leverages the elevated privileges to access the underlying operating system, install malware, steal sensitive data, or establish persistent access (e.g., backdoors).
The vulnerability stems from the inclusion of a hardcoded credential within the Dell RecoverPoint for Virtual Machines software. This credential, likely a username and password combination, is used for internal system operations and communication. The code does not adequately protect this credential, making it accessible to an attacker. The root cause is a failure to securely manage sensitive information. Specifically, the credential is embedded directly within the application's source code or configuration files, bypassing any secure storage mechanisms like encryption or key management. This allows an attacker who can access the application's network interface to authenticate to the system with elevated privileges.
This vulnerability poses a significant threat to organizations using Dell RecoverPoint for Virtual Machines. APT groups known for targeting virtualization infrastructure and data protection solutions are likely to exploit this vulnerability. The vulnerability's ease of use and potential for high impact make it attractive to a wide range of threat actors. CISA KEV status is highly probable if not already present.
Network traffic analysis: Monitor for unusual authentication attempts using the hardcoded credential. Look for repeated failed login attempts followed by successful logins using the same credentials.
Log analysis: Examine system logs for successful logins from unexpected sources or at unusual times. Review logs for any activity associated with the hardcoded account.
File integrity monitoring: Monitor critical system files and configuration files for unauthorized modifications.
Endpoint detection and response (EDR): Deploy EDR solutions to detect malicious activity, such as the installation of backdoors or the exfiltration of data, after a successful compromise.
Honeypots: Deploy honeypots to attract attackers and gather intelligence on their tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs).
Upgrade to Dell RecoverPoint for Virtual Machines version 6.0.3.1 HF1 or later. This is the primary and most effective remediation.
If immediate upgrading is not possible, implement network segmentation to restrict access to the RecoverPoint system. Limit network access to only trusted hosts and users.
Review and harden the operating system hosting RecoverPoint. Apply security best practices, including patching, disabling unnecessary services, and implementing strong password policies.
Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) where possible to add an extra layer of security.
Regularly audit system logs and network traffic for suspicious activity.
Consider using a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to filter malicious traffic.