“VMware Aria Automation contains a server-side request forgery (SSRF) vulnerability. A malicious actor with “Organization Member” access to Aria Automation may exploit this vulnerability enumerate internal services running on the host/network”
The statement explains a server-side request forgery (SSRF) vulnerability in VMware Aria Automation. Here’s a breakdown:
What is SSRF (Server-Side Request Forgery)?
SSRF is a web security vulnerability that occurs when an attacker can manipulate a server to send unauthorized requests to other systems. This often happens because the server accepts user input to define the target URL or address for an outgoing request.
How SSRF Works:
- User Input: The attacker submits malicious input, such as a crafted URL.
- Server Processing: The server takes this input and makes a request to the specified address without validating it.
- Impact: The attacker can use this to:
- Probe internal systems (intranet services, metadata endpoints, etc.).
- Access restricted resources that the attacker cannot reach directly.
- Potentially exploit other vulnerabilities in the targeted internal systems.
VMware Aria Automation:
VMware Aria Automation (formerly vRealize Automation) is a cloud automation platform that enables IT teams to automate and manage the delivery of IT services, applications, and resources. It supports multiple clouds and provides features like:
- Infrastructure as Code (IaC).
- Policy-based governance.
- Integration with VMware and third-party services.
What the Statement Means?
- Product:
The vulnerability exists in VMware Aria Automation, a platform used for automating IT infrastructure and application delivery. - Access Requirement:
An attacker needs to have “Organization Member” access in the system. This means the attacker is already a legitimate user but might have limited privileges. - Vulnerability Details:
- The SSRF vulnerability allows the attacker to make the server send requests to internal services (within the same host or network).
- By exploiting this, the attacker could enumerate (discover and list) internal services running on the network or server host.
- The attacker could gain insights into internal network structure, such as what services are running, their configurations, or any open endpoints.
- Potential Impact:
- Information Disclosure: Identifying internal services and configurations could be used to plan further attacks.
- Lateral Movement: The attacker might exploit other vulnerabilities in internal services discovered through SSRF.
- Broader Security Risk: If exploited, it could compromise the confidentiality and integrity of internal systems.
Mitigation Steps:
Organizations using VMware Aria Automation should:
- Apply Security Updates/Patches: Ensure the latest patches from VMware are applied, as they often address such vulnerabilities.
- Restrict Access: Minimize access to the “Organization Member” role to trusted individuals. Use the principle of least privilege.
- Network Segmentation: Ensure internal services are not exposed unnecessarily and isolate critical systems.
- Monitor Activity: Keep an eye on unusual network activity that could indicate attempts to exploit the SSRF.