Adversaries may use an internal proxy to direct command and control traffic between two or more systems in a compromised environment. Many tools exist that enable traffic redirection through proxies or port redirection, including HTRAN, ZXProxy, and ZXPortMap. (Citation: Trend Micro APT Attack Tools) Adversaries use internal proxies to manage command and control communications inside a compromised environment, to reduce the number of simultaneous outbound network connections, to provide resiliency in the face of connection loss, or to ride over existing trusted communications paths between infected systems to avoid suspicion. Internal proxy connections may use common peer-to-peer (p2p) networking protocols, such as SMB, to better blend in with the environment.
By using a compromised internal system as a proxy, adversaries may conceal the true destination of C2 traffic while reducing the need for numerous connections to external systems.
View in MITRE ATT&CK®Capability ID | Capability Description | Mapping Type | ATT&CK ID | ATT&CK Name | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
CVE-2021-22017 | VMware vCenter Server Improper Access Control | primary_impact | T1090.001 | Internal Proxy |
Comments
The vulnerability in Rhttproxy within VMware's vCenter Server arises from an improper implementation of URI normalization. Attackers with network access to port 443 on the vCenter Server exploit this flaw by sending specially crafted requests, allowing them to bypass the proxy mechanism. This exploitation grants unauthorized access to internal endpoints, potentially exposing sensitive information.
References
|