CVE-2024-42456: 
Veeam Backup & Replication vulnerability analysis and mitigation

CVE-2024-42456 is a high-severity vulnerability discovered in Veeam Backup & Replication platform that allows a low-privileged user with a specific role to exploit a method that updates critical configuration settings. The vulnerability was disclosed on December 3, 2024, affecting Veeam Backup & Replication versions prior to 12.3.0.310. This security flaw enables unauthorized access to privileged methods and control over critical services through insufficient permission requirements (NVD, Veeam KB).

The vulnerability carries a CVSS v3.1 base score of 8.8 (High) with the vector string CVSS:3.0/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H. The issue stems from insufficient permission requirements on a method that allows users with low privileges to perform actions that should require higher-level permissions. The vulnerability specifically affects the authentication mechanism used for critical configuration settings, such as modifying trusted client certificates used for authentication on specific ports (Rapid7, Veeam KB).

The exploitation of this vulnerability can result in unauthorized access to privileged methods and control over critical services. An attacker with low-level privileges can potentially gain elevated access rights, enabling them to modify critical configuration settings and initiate critical services without proper authorization (NVD, Security Online).

Veeam has addressed this vulnerability in Veeam Backup & Replication version 12.3 (build 12.3.0.310). As a temporary mitigation measure until systems can be upgraded, administrators are advised to remove untrusted and unnecessary users from the Users and Roles settings on the backup server. Organizations should review all users assigned a Role within Veeam Backup & Replication and assess internal necessity, removing access for users who do not strictly need it (Veeam KB).