CVE-2021-22019 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A denial-of-service vulnerability was discovered in the vCenter Server's VAPI (vCenter API) service. Malicious actors with network access to port 5480 on the vCenter Server can exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted jsonrpc message, leading to a denial of service condition.

Understanding CVE-2021-22019

This section provides insights into the impact and technical details of the CVE-2021-22019 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-22019?

The vCenter Server is affected by a denial-of-service vulnerability in its VAPI service. Attackers can exploit this issue by sending a malicious jsonrpc message to the server, resulting in a denial of service.

The Impact of CVE-2021-22019

The vulnerability in the vCenter Server's VAPI service allows threat actors to create a denial of service scenario by exploiting the issue through port 5480.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-22019

This section delves into the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vCenter Server is susceptible to a denial-of-service vulnerability in its VAPI service, enabling attackers to disrupt the server's functionality by sending a specially crafted jsonrpc message.

Affected Systems and Versions

VMware vCenter Server versions 6.5 before 6.5 U3q, 6.7 before 6.7 U3o, and 7.x before 7.0 U2c, along with VMware Cloud Foundation versions 3.x before 3.10.2.2 and 4.x before 4.3, are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Cyber adversaries can exploit CVE-2021-22019 by sending a malicious jsonrpc message to the vCenter Server via port 5480, triggering a denial-of-service condition.

Mitigation and Prevention

Explore immediate steps and long-term security practices to safeguard systems against CVE-2021-22019 and the importance of patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations should restrict network access to port 5480 on the vCenter Server, monitor for any unusual activity, and apply security best practices to prevent unauthorized exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement network segmentation, maintain up-to-date security configurations, conduct regular security assessments, and educate users on safe computing practices to enhance overall security posture.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of patches and updates released by VMware to address the CVE-2021-22019 vulnerability and fortify system defenses.