CVE-2024-4995 is a critical vulnerability identified in Asseco Business Solutions S.A.'s Wapro ERP Desktop software, specifically affecting versions prior to 9.00.0. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-757, which involves the selection of less-secure algorithms during negotiation, commonly referred to as an 'algorithm downgrade' attack. In this case, the vulnerability arises from the MS SQL protocol negotiation process between the Wapro ERP Desktop client and the server. An attacker controlling or influencing the server side can force the client to downgrade the communication protocol to a less secure or unencrypted version. This downgrade results in the transmission of sensitive data in plaintext, exposing it to interception and potential modification by attackers. The vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction, and the attack vector is network-based, making it exploitable remotely. The CVSS 4.0 score of 9.1 (critical) reflects the high impact on confidentiality and integrity due to the exposure of sensitive ERP data and the possibility of data tampering. The vulnerability does not affect availability directly but compromises the trustworthiness and confidentiality of the ERP communications. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, but the severity and ease of exploitation make it a significant risk. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because ERP systems like Wapro ERP Desktop often handle critical business data, including financial, operational, and customer information, making them attractive targets for attackers seeking espionage, fraud, or disruption. The lack of encryption due to protocol downgrade can facilitate man-in-the-middle (MITM) attacks, data leakage, and unauthorized data manipulation.

For European organizations using Wapro ERP Desktop, this vulnerability poses a severe risk to the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive business data. Given that ERP systems are central to business operations, exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of financial records, customer data, and internal communications. This could result in regulatory non-compliance, especially under GDPR, leading to significant fines and reputational damage. The ability to intercept and modify data could also enable fraudulent activities, such as falsifying invoices or altering inventory records. The critical nature of the vulnerability means that attackers could exploit it remotely without authentication, increasing the risk of widespread attacks. Organizations in sectors such as manufacturing, retail, and services that rely on Wapro ERP Desktop for daily operations are particularly vulnerable. Furthermore, the exposure of unencrypted data on the network increases the risk of espionage by competitors or state-sponsored actors. The impact extends beyond direct data loss to potential operational disruptions and loss of stakeholder trust.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should prioritize upgrading Wapro ERP Desktop to version 9.00.0 or later, where the issue is resolved. Until the patch is applied, organizations should enforce network-level protections such as VPNs or IPsec tunnels to ensure encrypted communication channels between clients and servers, effectively preventing downgrade attacks at the network layer. Additionally, implementing strict network segmentation to isolate ERP servers from untrusted networks can reduce exposure. Monitoring network traffic for unencrypted MS SQL communications can help detect potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also review and harden their MS SQL server configurations to disable support for legacy or less secure protocols that could be leveraged for downgrades. Employing intrusion detection systems (IDS) with signatures for downgrade attacks and anomalous protocol negotiation can provide early warnings. Finally, conducting regular security audits and employee training on recognizing suspicious network activity will enhance overall security posture.