CVE-2024-25000 is a path traversal vulnerability classified under CWE-22 affecting the web component of Ivanti Avalanche prior to version 6.4.3. This vulnerability enables a remote attacker who has authenticated access to the system to traverse directories and execute arbitrary commands with SYSTEM-level privileges. The vulnerability arises due to insufficient validation of user-supplied input in the web interface, allowing crafted requests to access unauthorized file system locations and escalate privileges. The CVSS v3.0 score is 8.8, indicating high severity, with attack vector being network-based, low attack complexity, requiring privileges but no user interaction, and impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Ivanti Avalanche is widely used for endpoint management and software deployment, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it can lead to full system compromise. Although no public exploits are known yet, the vulnerability’s characteristics suggest it could be weaponized quickly. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on April 19, 2024, and organizations are advised to upgrade to version 6.4.3 or later where the issue is fixed.

The impact on European organizations includes potential full system compromise of Ivanti Avalanche servers, leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of endpoint management operations, and possible lateral movement within networks. Given Ivanti Avalanche’s role in managing software deployment and device configurations, exploitation could allow attackers to deploy malicious payloads across managed endpoints, severely affecting operational continuity and data integrity. Critical sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and manufacturing could face significant operational and reputational damage. The SYSTEM-level execution capability means attackers can bypass most security controls, disable defenses, and maintain persistence. The vulnerability’s exploitation could also facilitate ransomware attacks or data exfiltration campaigns targeting European entities.

Organizations should immediately upgrade Ivanti Avalanche to version 6.4.3 or later where the vulnerability is patched. Until the upgrade is applied, restrict access to the Avalanche web interface to trusted networks and enforce strong authentication mechanisms, including multi-factor authentication. Conduct thorough audits of user accounts with access to the management interface and remove unnecessary privileges. Implement network segmentation to isolate Avalanche servers from critical infrastructure and monitor logs for unusual file access patterns or command executions. Employ intrusion detection systems tuned to detect path traversal attempts and anomalous behavior. Regularly back up configuration and system data to enable recovery in case of compromise. Finally, maintain up-to-date threat intelligence feeds to stay informed about any emerging exploits targeting this vulnerability.