CVE-2024-43394 is a high-severity vulnerability classified as a Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF) in Apache HTTP Server versions 2.4.0 through 2.4.63 on Windows. This vulnerability allows attackers to potentially leak NTLM hashes to a malicious server through mod_rewrite or Apache expressions that pass unvalidated request input. The risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive information, specifically NTLM hashes, which could be exploited for further attacks.
Given the CVSS score of 7.5, this vulnerability requires immediate attention. The Apache HTTP Server Project plans to enforce stricter guidelines for accepting vulnerability reports related to SSRF via UNC paths. Organizations utilizing the affected versions should assess their exposure and implement necessary mitigations.
Currently, there are no known exploits in the wild, but the potential for exploitation exists, highlighting the urgency for organizations to prioritize remediation in their patch cycles.
Organizations should limit the hosts that their servers connect to via SMB based on the nature of NTLM authentication to mitigate this vulnerability effectively.
Vulnerability Details
This vulnerability allows attackers to exploit the Apache HTTP Server on Windows to leak NTLM hashes. The issue affects all versions from 2.4.0 through 2.4.63. The CVSS vector for this vulnerability is CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N, indicating a network attack vector with low complexity and no required privileges or user interaction.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2024-43394 stems from how the Apache HTTP Server processes unvalidated request input. Attackers may leverage this vulnerability through network access, allowing them to craft requests that manipulate server behavior. With low attack complexity and no privileges required, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, particularly in environments that use NTLM authentication.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes potential exposure of NTLM hashes, which could allow attackers to perform further unauthorized actions within the network. With the existing infrastructure, the blast radius could extend to any system that interacts with the compromised server, leading to a broader security incident. Given the high severity and potential impact, organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
Apache HTTP Server versions from 2.4.0 through 2.4.63 are affected by this vulnerability. Organizations must ensure they are running a patched version of the software to mitigate risk.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize upgrading to Apache HTTP Server version 2.4.64 or later, which addresses this vulnerability. If immediate patching is not feasible, restricting access to SMB shares and validating input from mod_rewrite and Apache expressions are essential workarounds. Additionally, continuous monitoring and network controls should be implemented to detect any unauthorized access attempts.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for unusual access patterns or attempts to connect to unauthorized SMB shares. Behavioral anomalies during request handling may indicate exploitation attempts. Implementing network signatures for known attack patterns can aid in detection.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2024-43394 lies in its potential impact on organizations utilizing Apache HTTP Server. This vulnerability highlights the ongoing risk associated with improper validation of user input, particularly regarding NTLM authentication. Security teams should leverage this incident to strengthen their input validation processes and consider engaging in penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses in their applications.
Furthermore, organizations should consider adopting an effective application security assessment framework to proactively address vulnerabilities early in the development cycle.
In summary, CVE-2024-43394 serves as a reminder of the importance of rigorous security practices. Security teams should regularly review their security posture and remain vigilant against emerging threats, ensuring that all software components are up to date.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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