CVE-2021-34690 in RemotePC
Summary
by MITRE • 07/15/2021
iDrive RemotePC before 7.6.48 on Windows allows authentication bypass. A remote and unauthenticated attacker can bypass cloud authentication to connect and control a system via TCP port 5970 and 5980.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/19/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-34690 represents a critical authentication bypass flaw in iDrive RemotePC software versions prior to 7.6.48 on Windows systems. This security weakness allows remote attackers to gain unauthorized access to target systems without providing valid credentials, fundamentally compromising the integrity of the authentication mechanism that should protect remote desktop connections. The vulnerability specifically affects TCP ports 5970 and 5980, which are designated for remote control and management operations within the iDrive RemotePC framework.
The technical nature of this flaw stems from inadequate validation of authentication credentials during the connection establishment process. Attackers can exploit this weakness by directly connecting to the exposed TCP ports without presenting valid authentication tokens or credentials, effectively circumventing the intended security controls. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-287, which addresses improper authentication issues in software systems. The flaw represents a classic case of weak session management where the system fails to properly verify user identity before granting access privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, as it enables full remote control capabilities over affected systems. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute arbitrary commands, access sensitive data, install malicious software, and potentially escalate privileges within the compromised environment. The implications extend beyond individual system compromise to potential lateral movement within networks, as attackers can use these compromised systems as stepping stones for further infiltration. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1075 which covers the use of legitimate credentials for persistence and access.
The exposure of TCP ports 5970 and 5980 creates a persistent attack surface that can be exploited by automated scanning tools and malicious actors. These ports typically serve as entry points for remote desktop protocols, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where such services are exposed to untrusted networks. Organizations that have not updated to iDrive RemotePC version 7.6.48 remain at significant risk, as the vulnerability allows attackers to establish persistent connections without detection. Network segmentation and firewall rules that do not properly restrict access to these ports can exacerbate the threat landscape.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patch deployment to iDrive RemotePC versions 7.6.48 or later, which contain the necessary authentication fixes. Network administrators should implement strict firewall rules to restrict access to TCP ports 5970 and 5980, limiting connections to trusted IP addresses and networks only. Additional defensive measures include monitoring network traffic for unusual patterns on these ports, implementing intrusion detection systems, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments. The remediation process should also include reviewing and updating access control policies to ensure that only authorized personnel can establish connections to remote management interfaces. Organizations should consider implementing multi-factor authentication mechanisms and regular security audits to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other components of their remote access infrastructure.