CVE-2014-0633 in VPLEX GeoSynchrony
Summary
by MITRE
The GUI in EMC VPLEX GeoSynchrony 4.x and 5.x before 5.3 does not properly validate session-timeout values, which might make it easier for remote attackers to execute arbitrary code by leveraging an unattended workstation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/09/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2014-0633 affects EMC VPLEX GeoSynchrony versions 4.x and 5.x prior to 5.3, specifically targeting the graphical user interface component that manages session timeout configurations. This flaw represents a critical security oversight in enterprise storage management systems where unauthorized access could lead to arbitrary code execution. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the GUI subsystem that handles session timeout parameters, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate these values and gain elevated privileges on the system.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through a session management attack vector where an unattended workstation becomes a target for remote code execution. Attackers can manipulate session timeout values to extend or modify authentication timeouts, effectively bypassing normal security controls that would otherwise terminate inactive sessions. This weakness allows malicious actors to maintain persistent access to the system without proper authentication, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-20, which describes improper input validation, and specifically relates to CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication mechanisms. The attack surface is particularly concerning in enterprise environments where storage systems often contain sensitive data and require robust security controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to encompass potential data breaches, system compromise, and disruption of critical storage operations. In environments where VPLEX GeoSynchrony systems manage large-scale data replication and disaster recovery operations, an attacker could exploit this vulnerability to manipulate storage configurations, access sensitive data, or disrupt business continuity processes. The unattended workstation aspect of this vulnerability is particularly dangerous as it assumes that attackers can exploit the system when users are not actively monitoring their sessions, making detection more difficult. This scenario aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation through legitimate credentials.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including applying the vendor-provided security patches for EMC VPLEX GeoSynchrony 5.3 and later versions, implementing strict session management policies, and configuring additional network-level controls to monitor and restrict access to these critical systems. Security teams should also establish monitoring procedures to detect unusual session timeout modifications and implement network segmentation to limit access to storage management interfaces. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation in GUI components and demonstrates how seemingly minor configuration flaws can lead to significant security implications in enterprise storage environments. Organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments of their storage infrastructure to identify similar vulnerabilities and implement defense-in-depth strategies that include both network-level protections and application-level input validation controls.