CVE-2023-41998 in UDP
Summary
by MITRE • 11/27/2023
Arcserve UDP prior to 9.2 contained a vulnerability in the com.ca.arcflash.rps.webservice.RPSService4CPMImpl interface. A routine exists that allows an attacker to upload and execute arbitrary files.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/17/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-41998 affects Arcserve UDP software versions prior to 9.2, specifically within the com.ca.arcflash.rps.webservice.RPSService4CPMImpl interface. This represents a critical security flaw that stems from insufficient input validation and access control mechanisms within the remote procedure call service implementation. The affected component serves as a communication interface between the backup and recovery system and external management components, making it a prime target for exploitation attempts.
The technical flaw manifests through a routine that permits unauthorized file upload operations without proper authentication or authorization checks. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-434 category, which addresses "Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type," and represents a direct pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system. The absence of proper validation mechanisms allows malicious actors to bypass normal security controls and upload malicious payloads that can be executed within the context of the application's privileges.
Operationally, this vulnerability creates significant risk for organizations utilizing Arcserve UDP for their backup and disaster recovery operations. Attackers who successfully exploit this flaw can gain persistent access to backup servers and potentially compromise the entire backup infrastructure. The impact extends beyond immediate system compromise as backup systems often contain sensitive organizational data, making them attractive targets for data exfiltration or ransomware attacks. The vulnerability could enable attackers to escalate privileges, install backdoors, or disrupt critical backup operations that organizations rely upon for business continuity.
The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1195.001, which covers "Supply Chain Compromise: Compromise Software Dependencies and Development Tools," as well as T1059.001 for "Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell" and T1566.001 for "Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment." Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to Arcserve UDP version 9.2 or later, which contains the necessary security patches. Network segmentation should be enforced to limit access to the affected service, and access controls should be strictly enforced through role-based access control mechanisms. Additionally, monitoring for suspicious file upload activities and implementing web application firewalls can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date security patches and conducting regular security assessments of critical infrastructure components to prevent unauthorized access and potential data breaches.