Zoho Desktop Central Vulnerability Allows Authentication Bypass

A vulnerability has been discovered in Zoho Desktop Central and Desktop Central MSP that could allow for authentication bypass. Zoho Desktop Central and Desktop Central MSP are unified endpoint management (UEM) solution that helps in managing servers, laptops, desktops, smartphones, and tablets from a central location. It allows admins to deploy patches and software over the network and troubleshoot them remotely. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could allow for a remote user to perform unauthorized actions on a server including access to unauthorized data or the ability the write an arbitrary zip file.

THREAT INTELLIGENCE: There are currently not reports of this vulnerability being exploited in the wild.

SYSTEMS AFFECTED:

• Zoho ManageEngine Desktop Central and Desktop Central MSP versions prior to 10.1.2137.9

RISK:

Government:

• Large and medium government entities: High
• Small government entities: Medium

Businesses:

• Large and medium business entities: High
• Small business entities: Medium

Home users: Low

TECHNICAL SUMMARY:

A vulnerability has been discovered in Zoho Desktop Central and Desktop Central MSP that could allow for authentication bypass. This vulnerability exists due to the way the Zoho Desktop Central and Desktop Central MSP handle certain requests. When an unauthenticated attacker sends a specially crafted request to Zoho Desktop Central or Desktop Central MSP, it could allow them to bypass authentication. Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could allow for a remote user to perform unauthorized actions on a server including access to unauthorized data or the ability the write an arbitrary zip file.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

We recommend the following actions be taken:

• Upgrade Zoho Desktop Central and Desktop Central MSP (10.1.2137.9  and later versions) to a fixed version as provided by Zoho.
• Verify no unauthorized changes have occurred before applying patches/updates.
• Run all software as a non-privileged user (one without administrative privileges) to diminish the effects of a successful attack.
• Apply the Principle of Least Privilege to all systems and services

REFERENCES:

CVE:

https://cve.mitre.org/cgi-bin/cvename.cgi?name=CVE-2021-44757

BleepingComputer:

https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/zoho-plugs-another-critical-security-hole-in-desktop-central/

ManageEngine:

https://pitstop.manageengine.com/portal/en/community/topic/a-critical-security-patch-released-in-desktop-central-and-desktop-central-msp-for-cve-2021-44757-17-1-2022

https://www.manageengine.com/products/desktop-central/cve-2021-44757.html