CVE-2024-36131 Overview
CVE-2024-36131 is an insecure deserialization vulnerability in the web component of Ivanti Endpoint Manager Mobile (EPMM) prior to version 12.1.0.1. This vulnerability allows an authenticated remote attacker to execute arbitrary commands on the underlying operating system of the appliance, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
Critical Impact
Authenticated attackers can achieve remote code execution on EPMM appliances, enabling full system takeover, data exfiltration, and lateral movement within enterprise networks.
Affected Products
- Ivanti Endpoint Manager Mobile (EPMM) versions prior to 12.1.0.1
Discovery Timeline
- August 7, 2024 - CVE-2024-36131 published to NVD
- August 21, 2024 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2024-36131
Vulnerability Analysis
This insecure deserialization vulnerability (CWE-502) exists within the web component of Ivanti Endpoint Manager Mobile. Insecure deserialization occurs when an application deserializes untrusted data without proper validation, allowing attackers to manipulate serialized objects to execute malicious code.
In this case, an authenticated attacker can craft malicious serialized objects that, when processed by the EPMM web component, result in arbitrary command execution on the underlying operating system. The vulnerability requires the attacker to have valid authentication credentials, but once authenticated, the exploitation path leads directly to operating system-level command execution.
The network-accessible nature of this vulnerability combined with the low complexity of exploitation makes it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where EPMM appliances are typically exposed to manage mobile device fleets.
Root Cause
The root cause of CVE-2024-36131 is improper handling of serialized data within the EPMM web component. The application fails to adequately validate or sanitize serialized objects before deserializing them, allowing attackers to inject malicious payloads that execute when processed. This is classified as CWE-502 (Deserialization of Untrusted Data).
Attack Vector
The attack vector for this vulnerability is network-based. An authenticated attacker can exploit this vulnerability by:
- Obtaining valid credentials for the EPMM web interface (through phishing, credential stuffing, or other means)
- Crafting a malicious serialized object containing command execution payloads
- Submitting the malicious payload to the vulnerable web component
- Achieving arbitrary command execution on the underlying operating system
The vulnerability allows attackers to execute commands with the privileges of the EPMM application, which typically runs with elevated permissions to manage mobile devices across the enterprise.
Detection Methods for CVE-2024-36131
Indicators of Compromise
- Unusual authentication patterns to EPMM web interfaces, particularly from unexpected IP addresses
- Anomalous network traffic originating from EPMM appliances to external destinations
- Unexpected process spawning from the EPMM web application processes
- Modified system files or creation of new user accounts on EPMM appliances
Detection Strategies
- Monitor EPMM web component logs for unusual serialized object submissions or error messages related to deserialization failures
- Implement network-based intrusion detection rules to identify malformed or suspicious requests to EPMM endpoints
- Deploy endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions on EPMM appliances to detect post-exploitation activities
- Audit authentication logs for signs of credential abuse or unusual login patterns
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enable verbose logging on EPMM appliances and forward logs to a centralized SIEM for correlation analysis
- Implement file integrity monitoring on critical EPMM system files and configurations
- Monitor for outbound network connections from EPMM appliances to unexpected destinations
- Set up alerts for any command execution or shell spawning from the EPMM web application context
How to Mitigate CVE-2024-36131
Immediate Actions Required
- Upgrade Ivanti Endpoint Manager Mobile to version 12.1.0.1 or later immediately
- Review authentication logs to identify any potential compromise attempts
- Restrict network access to EPMM management interfaces to trusted IP ranges only
- Implement multi-factor authentication for all EPMM administrative accounts
Patch Information
Ivanti has released a security update addressing this vulnerability. Organizations should upgrade to EPMM version 12.1.0.1 or later to remediate CVE-2024-36131. Detailed patch information and upgrade instructions are available in the Ivanti Security Advisory for EPMM July 2024.
Workarounds
- Restrict network access to EPMM web interfaces using firewall rules to limit exposure to trusted networks only
- Implement web application firewall (WAF) rules to inspect and block suspicious serialized object payloads
- Enable enhanced logging and monitoring to detect exploitation attempts until patching can be completed
- Consider temporarily disabling non-essential EPMM web features if patch deployment is delayed
# Example: Restrict EPMM management interface access using iptables
# Allow access only from trusted management network (adjust IP range as needed)
iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 443 -s 10.0.0.0/24 -j ACCEPT
iptables -A INPUT -p tcp --dport 443 -j DROP
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
