In today’s digital environment, maintaining robust network security is a critical priority for organizations. Despite significant investments in technology like firewalls and SIEM systems, many IT teams still overlook critical vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers. Based on over 10,000 automated internal network penetration tests conducted by vPenTest, we have identified several common pitfalls that can compromise an organization. Let’s dive into the ten most critical internal network security weaknesses that IT teams often miss.
1. Redis Service Misconfigurations
What is it: Redis, an in-memory key-value data store, typically does not enforce authentication by default, allowing unauthorized connections.
Security Impact: An attacker accessing Redis could manipulate data, requiring password management that meets strength criteria.
Recommendation: Configure Redis to require robust passwords and regularly check against known compromised credentials databases (e.g., Have I Been Pwned).
2. Accepting Default Credentials in Firebird Servers
What is it: Firebird servers often deploy with hard-coded default credentials, which need immediate updating post-installation.
Security Impact: Attackers can authenticate and enumerate sensitive database files, leading to unauthorized access.
Recommendation: Change default credentials using GSEC and add regular credential audits.
3. BlueKeep Vulnerability in Microsoft Windows
What is it: The BlueKeep vulnerability (CVE-2019-0708) affects Microsoft’s RDP protocol, enabling remote code execution.
Security Impact: This allows attackers to gain uncredentialed access to critical systems, potentially leading to data breaches.
Recommendation: Patch systems immediately and prioritize ongoing updates.
4. EternalBlue Exploit
What is it: EternalBlue takes advantage of a flaw in the SMBv1 protocol, used for file sharing on Windows.
Security Impact: Attackers gain administrative access, allowing lateral movement within the organization’s network.
Recommendation: Disable SMBv1 and ensure systems are up to date with relevant patches.
5. Vulnerabilities in the Intelligent Platform Management Interface (IPMI)
What is it: IPMI interfaces can allow remote attackers to bypass authentication.
Security Impact: This could expose systems to unauthorized remote access and configurations manipulation.
Recommendation: Limit IPMI access to only needed systems, using strong passwords and secure communication protocols.
6. Outdated Systems
What is it: Systems running outdated versions of Windows no longer receive critical security updates, increasing risk exposure.
Security Impact: Vulnerabilities in these systems can lead to unauthorized access and data breaches.
Recommendation: Regularly update systems and replace unsupported software.
7. IPv6 DNS Spoofing Risks
What is it: Rogue DHCPv6 servers can redirect network traffic to malicious DNS servers.
Security Impact: Attackers can intercept sensitive data and redirect users to harmful sites.
Recommendation: Implement DHCP snooping and consider managing IPv4 preferences.
8. LLMNR Spoofing
What is it: Link-Local Multicast Name Resolution (LLMNR) allows for name resolution without traditional DNS.
Security Impact: Attackers can misuse LLMNR for redirection and data capture.
Recommendation: Disable LLMNR across the organization’s networks.
9. NBNS Spoofing Vulnerabilities
What is it: The NetBIOS Name Service allows systems to resolve domain names when DNS fails.
Security Impact: Attackers can respond with incorrect IP addresses, leading to unauthorized data access.
Recommendation: Disable NetBIOS services where possible.
10. mDNS Spoofing Risks
What is it: Multicast DNS allows devices on the same network to perform name resolution without a dedicated DNS server.
Security Impact: Attackers can redirect traffic and seize sensitive data.
Recommendation: Disable mDNS unless necessary and consider firewall rules to block related traffic.
Conclusion
Identifying and addressing these overlooked network pentest findings can significantly enhance your organization’s security posture. Cybersecurity isn’t just about reaction; it requires proactive measures, continuous monitoring, and education. For organizations seeking to mitigate vulnerabilities before they lead to data breaches, consider implementing regular network penetration testing with platforms like vPenTest.
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