CVE-2024-4563 Overview
CVE-2024-4563 is a cryptographic vulnerability affecting Progress MOVEit Automation, a widely deployed enterprise file transfer automation solution. The vulnerability exists in the configuration export function, which uses a cryptographic method with insufficient bit length prior to version 2024.0.0. This weak cryptographic implementation could allow attackers to compromise the confidentiality of exported configuration data through cryptographic attacks that exploit the insufficient key length.
Critical Impact
Attackers with network access can potentially decrypt exported configuration files, exposing sensitive credentials, connection strings, and automation workflow configurations used in enterprise file transfer operations.
Affected Products
- Progress MOVEit Automation versions prior to 2024.0.0
Discovery Timeline
- 2024-05-22 - CVE-2024-4563 published to NVD
- 2025-01-08 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2024-4563
Vulnerability Analysis
The vulnerability resides in the configuration export functionality of MOVEit Automation. When administrators export configuration data for backup, migration, or disaster recovery purposes, the application encrypts this sensitive information using a cryptographic algorithm with an insufficient key length. Modern cryptographic standards require minimum key lengths to resist brute-force attacks and maintain long-term security. The use of inadequate bit length in the encryption process weakens the protection of exported configuration files.
Configuration exports from MOVEit Automation typically contain highly sensitive information including database connection strings, SFTP credentials, API keys, scheduled task configurations, and integration parameters with other enterprise systems. The compromise of this data could provide attackers with the necessary credentials to access connected systems or intercept file transfers.
Root Cause
The root cause is classified under CWE-327 (Use of a Broken or Risky Cryptographic Algorithm). The configuration export function was implemented using a cryptographic method that does not meet current security standards for bit length. This insufficient key size makes the encrypted configuration data vulnerable to cryptographic attacks, particularly as computational power increases and cryptanalysis techniques improve.
Attack Vector
The attack vector is network-based, requiring no authentication or user interaction. An attacker who gains access to exported configuration files—whether through network interception, compromised storage systems, or data exfiltration—could perform offline cryptographic attacks against the weakly encrypted data. The attacker does not need direct access to the MOVEit Automation server; only the exported configuration file is required.
The exploitation scenario involves:
- Obtaining an exported configuration file from MOVEit Automation
- Identifying the weak cryptographic algorithm and insufficient key length
- Performing brute-force or cryptanalytic attacks against the encrypted data
- Extracting plaintext credentials and sensitive configuration parameters
Detection Methods for CVE-2024-4563
Indicators of Compromise
- Unusual access patterns to configuration export files or backup locations
- Unauthorized access attempts to MOVEit Automation administrative interfaces
- Discovery of exported configuration files in unexpected locations or external systems
- Evidence of credential compromise for accounts stored in MOVEit Automation configurations
Detection Strategies
- Monitor file access logs for configuration export files (typically .config or exported backup archives)
- Implement Data Loss Prevention (DLP) rules to detect MOVEit configuration files leaving the network
- Review authentication logs for signs of credential abuse following potential exposure
- Deploy network monitoring to identify unauthorized transfers of backup or configuration data
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enable verbose logging on MOVEit Automation to track all configuration export operations
- Implement alerting for configuration exports performed outside of scheduled maintenance windows
- Monitor connected systems for unauthorized access using credentials stored in MOVEit configurations
- Conduct regular security audits of backup storage locations containing exported configurations
How to Mitigate CVE-2024-4563
Immediate Actions Required
- Upgrade Progress MOVEit Automation to version 2024.0.0 or later immediately
- Identify and secure all previously exported configuration files using the vulnerable cryptographic method
- Rotate all credentials contained within configuration exports created by vulnerable versions
- Review access controls on backup and configuration storage locations
Patch Information
Progress has addressed this vulnerability in MOVEit Automation version 2024.0.0. Organizations should consult the Progress MOVEit CVE-2024-4563 Advisory for detailed upgrade instructions and additional security guidance. The patch implements cryptographic methods with appropriate bit lengths that meet current industry standards.
Workarounds
- Treat all configuration exports from vulnerable versions as potentially compromised
- Store configuration export files in encrypted storage with strong, independent encryption
- Implement strict access controls limiting who can perform and access configuration exports
- Consider re-exporting configurations after upgrading to create properly encrypted backup files
- Delete legacy configuration exports created with the vulnerable cryptographic method after secure re-export
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
