CVE-2024-43639
Numeric Truncation Error (CWE-197)
Summary
Windows Kerberos Remote Code Execution Vulnerability. This critical vulnerability affects the Windows Kerberos authentication system, allowing remote code execution through a network-based attack vector. It requires no privileges and no user interaction, making it particularly dangerous. The vulnerability is associated with a cryptographic protocol weakness in systems configured as KDC Proxy servers.
Impact
The impact of this vulnerability is severe and far-reaching. An attacker could potentially: 1. Execute arbitrary code on the target system with high privileges. 2. Gain unauthorized access to sensitive information across the network. 3. Modify or delete critical data. 4. Disrupt normal system operations and services. 5. Use the compromised system as a foothold for broader network infiltration. Given Kerberos' fundamental role in Windows authentication infrastructure, a successful exploit could lead to a complete compromise of the affected system's confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The potential for lateral movement within the network is significant, as Kerberos is used for authentication across Windows environments.
Exploitation
There is no evidence that a public proof-of-concept exists. There is no evidence of proof of exploitation at the moment.
Patch
A patch is available. Microsoft released an official fix for this vulnerability on November 12, 2024. Given the critical nature of the vulnerability, with a CVSS base score of 9.8, it is imperative that the security team prioritizes the immediate application of this patch across all affected systems.
Mitigation
1. Apply the official Microsoft patch immediately to all affected systems. 2. Implement network segmentation to limit the potential spread of an attack. 3. Monitor for suspicious Kerberos-related activities in your network, focusing on unusual authentication patterns or unexpected privilege escalations. 4. Ensure all systems are up-to-date with the latest security updates, not just for this specific vulnerability. 5. Implement the principle of least privilege for all user accounts and services to minimize potential impact. 6. Use strong, complex passwords and consider implementing multi-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security. 7. Regularly audit and review Kerberos configurations and logs for any anomalies. 8. Consider temporarily disabling KDC Proxy server configurations until patching is complete, if feasible within your environment. 9. Conduct a thorough security assessment of your Windows infrastructure to identify any signs of compromise or exploitation attempts related to this vulnerability.
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H/E:U/RL:O/RC:C
Timeline
Detection for the vulnerability has been added to Qualys (92186)
A CVSS base score of 9.8 has been assigned.
Feedly found the first article mentioning CVE-2024-43639. See article
Feedly estimated the CVSS score as HIGH
NVD published the first details for CVE-2024-43639
Detection for the vulnerability has been added to Nessus (210861)
Detection for the vulnerability has been added to Nessus (210857)
Detection for the vulnerability has been added to Nessus (210860)
Detection for the vulnerability has been added to Nessus (210856)