Privilege Escalation Vulnerability in WhatsUp Gold Prior to 2024.0.1

CVE-2024-46907

What is CVE-2024-46907?

CVE-2024-46907 is a privilege escalation vulnerability identified in WhatsUp Gold, a network monitoring software developed by Progress Software Corporation. This vulnerability affects versions of the software prior to 2024.0.1. It enables an authenticated user with low-level permissions, specifically those with Report Viewer access, to exploit a SQL Injection flaw that allows them to elevate their permissions to that of an admin account. This potential for unauthorized access can severely compromise the security posture of an organization, allowing threat actors to manipulate system configurations, access sensitive data, or disrupt network operations.

Technical Details

The vulnerability is categorized as a SQL Injection, a type of attack that involves inserting or "injecting" malicious SQL queries into input fields, which are then executed by the database. In this case, the flaw allows users with limited access to execute commands as an administrator, leading to unauthorized actions within the software. Organizations using WhatsUp Gold prior to the patch release must be aware of this vulnerability, as the adverse effects can escalate dramatically depending on the administrative privileges gained.

Potential impact of CVE-2024-46907

1. Unauthorized Access to Sensitive Data: Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can gain administrative access, allowing them to view, modify, or delete sensitive information stored within the network monitoring system. This can lead to data breaches, compliance violations, and significant reputational damage.

2. System Compromise: With elevated privileges, an attacker has the ability to alter system settings or configurations, potentially compromising the integrity and availability of network services. This could disrupt critical business operations and lead to extended downtime.

3. Increased Attack Surface: The exploitation of this vulnerability can be a stepping stone for further attacks within the organization. Once administrative access is gained, attackers may deploy additional malware, launch further exploits, or pivot to other systems, increasing the overall risk to the organization's cybersecurity infrastructure.

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