CVE-2021-34579:Authentication Bypass in Phoenix Contact FL MGUARD DM Apache Web Server

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Description Preview

A vulnerability in Phoenix Contact FL MGUARD DM versions 1.12.0 and 1.13.0 allows unauthorized access to the Apache web server component installed on Microsoft Windows systems. Even when login credentials are configured during installation, the authentication mechanism fails to properly enforce access controls. This allows attackers with network access to download mGuard configuration profiles ("ATV profiles") without authentication, potentially exposing sensitive information such as private keys for IPsec VPN connections.

Overview

The vulnerability affects the Apache web server component of Phoenix Contact FL MGUARD DM versions 1.12.0 and 1.13.0 running on Microsoft Windows. The authentication bypass allows remote attackers to access the web server without providing valid credentials, even when authentication has been explicitly configured during the installation process. Once accessed, attackers can download configuration profiles that may contain highly sensitive security information, including private keys used for IPsec VPN connections. This vulnerability represents a significant security risk as it could lead to unauthorized access to protected networks through compromised VPN credentials.

Remediation

Organizations using affected versions of Phoenix Contact FL MGUARD DM should:

  1. Update to the latest version of FL MGUARD DM as recommended by Phoenix Contact
  2. Implement additional network security controls to restrict access to the Apache web server
  3. Consider changing VPN private keys and credentials if there's any suspicion they may have been compromised
  4. Monitor for unauthorized access attempts to the web server
  5. Consider implementing network segmentation to isolate the management interface
  6. Contact Phoenix Contact support for specific patching instructions if updates are not immediately available

References

  1. VDE CERT Advisory: https://cert.vde.com/en/advisories/VDE-2021-035/
  2. Phoenix Contact Security Advisories
  3. MITRE CVE-2021-34579 Entry

Industry ExposureMost to least
This section illustrates the prevalence of a specific Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE) across various industries based on customer reports. The ranking displays industries from the most to least affected by this particular vulnerability, offering valuable insight into where this CVE has been most frequently observed. This information can help organizations within these sectors prioritize their security efforts, understand their relative risk exposure compared to their peers, and focus remediation strategies where they are most needed. By understanding the industry-specific impact, organizations can make more informed decisions regarding patching, resource allocation, and overall risk management related to this CVE.

  1. Accommodation & Food Services
    Accommodation & Food Services
  2. Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
    Administrative, Support, Waste Management & Remediation Services
  3. Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
    Agriculture, Forestry Fishing & Hunting
  4. Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
    Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
  5. Construction
    Construction
  6. Educational Services
    Educational Services
  7. Finance and Insurance
    Finance and Insurance
  8. Health Care & Social Assistance
    Health Care & Social Assistance
  9. Information
    Information
  10. Management of Companies & Enterprises
    Management of Companies & Enterprises
  11. Manufacturing
    Manufacturing
  12. Mining
    Mining
  13. Other Services (except Public Administration)
    Other Services (except Public Administration)
  14. Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
    Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services
  15. Public Administration
    Public Administration
  16. Real Estate Rental & Leasing
    Real Estate Rental & Leasing
  17. Retail Trade
    Retail Trade
  18. Transportation & Warehousing
    Transportation & Warehousing
  19. Utilities
    Utilities
  20. Wholesale Trade
    Wholesale Trade

Focus on What Matters

  1. See Everything.
  2. Identify True Risk.
  3. Proactively Mitigate Threats.

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Armis Vulnerability Intelligence Database