CVE-2024-1709: ConnectWise ScreenConnect Auth Bypass Flaw

CVE-2024-1709 Overview

ConnectWise ScreenConnect 23.9.7 and prior are affected by an Authentication Bypass Using an Alternate Path or Channel vulnerability, which may allow an attacker direct access to confidential information or critical systems.

Critical Impact
This vulnerability is rated as critical with a CVSS score of 10.0, indicating possible full system compromise.

Affected Products

Connectwise Screenconnect

Discovery Timeline

2024-02-21 - CVE-2024-1709 published to NVD
2025-10-24 - Last updated in NVD database

Technical Details for CVE-2024-1709

Vulnerability Analysis

The vulnerability leverages an alternate path or channel for bypassing authentication mechanisms, potentially allowing unauthorized access to sensitive resources.

Root Cause

The defect is rooted in improper validation of authentication paths, which can be maliciously rerouted by attackers.

Attack Vector

This vulnerability can be exploited remotely over a network without authentication. It is actively exploited in the wild, warranting immediate attention.

python

# Exploitation example (sanitized)
import requests

url = "http://victim-server/screenconnect/"
params = {"auth_bypass": "true"}

response = requests.get(url, params=params)
if "Welcome" in response.text:
    print("Authentication bypass successful!")
else:
    print("Failed to bypass.")

Detection Methods for CVE-2024-1709

Indicators of Compromise

Unexpected login attempts from unknown IP addresses
Unexplained changes in user roles or permissions
Access logs with anomalous URL parameters

Detection Strategies

Implement IDS/IPS systems to monitor for anomalous URL parameters that could indicate an attempted bypass. Analyze logs for unexpected access patterns.

Monitoring Recommendations

Regularly review authentication logs for known indicators of compromise and suspicious access patterns. Leverage network traffic analysis to detect and respond to potential exploitation.

How to Mitigate CVE-2024-1709

Immediate Actions Required

Immediately apply the latest security patch from ConnectWise
Enable enhanced logging to track all authentication requests
Implement network segmentation to isolate critical systems

Patch Information

Visit the ConnectWise security bulletin for patch details.

Workarounds

Disable unnecessary features that may allow paths for bypass until patches are applied.

bash

# Configuration example
sudo ufw deny from x.x.x.x to any port 80
sudo ufw allow from trusted_ip to any port 443