CVE-2008-3671 in True Image Echo Server
Summary
by MITRE
Acronis True Image Echo Server 9.x build 8072 on Linux does not properly encrypt backups to an FTP server, which allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/24/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2008-3671 affects Acronis True Image Echo Server version 9.x build 8072 running on Linux systems, specifically concerning its backup encryption mechanisms when transferring data to remote FTP servers. This issue represents a significant security weakness that undermines the confidentiality protections typically expected in enterprise backup solutions. The flaw manifests in the improper encryption of backup data during transmission to FTP destinations, creating potential exposure points for sensitive information that should remain protected throughout the backup process. The vulnerability stems from inadequate cryptographic implementation within the backup software's network communication protocols, particularly when establishing connections to remote FTP servers for data storage.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-310, which addresses cryptographic weaknesses in software implementations. Specifically, the flaw involves improper encryption of data in transit, where backup files are transmitted to remote FTP servers without adequate cryptographic protection. This weakness enables remote attackers to intercept and access sensitive backup data during transmission, potentially compromising the integrity and confidentiality of critical organizational information. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it affects enterprise-level backup solutions where sensitive data is routinely backed up to remote storage locations, making the exposure of this data potentially catastrophic for affected organizations. The implementation flaw likely involves insufficient or incorrect use of encryption algorithms during the FTP transfer process, leaving backup data vulnerable to interception and decryption by unauthorized parties.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability creates substantial risk for organizations relying on Acronis True Image Echo Server for their backup infrastructure. The exposure of backup data during FTP transmission could result in unauthorized access to confidential information, including personal data, financial records, intellectual property, and other sensitive organizational assets. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could potentially gain access to complete backup sets, which often contain comprehensive snapshots of organizational data, significantly amplifying the potential damage from a single security incident. The remote nature of the attack vector means that threat actors do not require physical access to the backup infrastructure, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can be exploited from any location with network connectivity to the affected FTP server. This vulnerability directly violates security principles outlined in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, particularly in the areas of confidentiality and data protection.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate implementation of secure communication protocols and comprehensive system hardening measures. Organizations should implement mandatory encryption for all backup data transmission, regardless of destination, and ensure that FTP connections utilize secure protocols such as FTPS or SFTP instead of plain FTP. The recommended approach involves upgrading to patched versions of Acronis True Image Echo Server where available, or implementing additional encryption layers through proxy solutions or dedicated secure file transfer mechanisms. Network administrators should also consider implementing monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized FTP access attempts and establish proper access controls for backup storage locations. Additionally, organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected software and ensure that backup processes are properly secured according to industry best practices. The ATT&CK framework's technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol: file transfer protocol should be considered when developing defensive strategies to protect against exploitation of this vulnerability.