Mitigation Instructions for Microsoft Exchange Server Unsupported Version Detection (Uncredentialed)

Subject: Microsoft Exchange Server Unsupported Version Detection

Tech Stack:

• Web Servers

Date Issued:

• Original Date: 2008-10-21
• Last Modified Date: 2023-02-10

Criticality:

• Severity: Critical
• Description: The remote web server is obsolete and unsupported, meaning it no longer receives security patches or maintenance updates from the vendor, making it vulnerable to potential security threats.

Overview:

• Running an obsolete and unsupported web server poses significant security risks. Without ongoing support and updates, the server is likely to have unpatched vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers. This can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and service disruptions.

Attack Mechanisms:

1. Exploitation of Known Vulnerabilities:
   • Attackers leverage publicly known vulnerabilities in unsupported web servers to gain unauthorized access or execute arbitrary code.
2. Denial of Service:
   • Vulnerabilities can be exploited to crash the server or make the service unavailable.
3. Information Disclosure:
   • Attacks may result in the disclosure of sensitive information processed by the web server.

Affected Systems:

• Any system running an obsolete or unsupported version of a web server.

Mitigation Solution:

1. Upgrade: Upgrade to a supported version of the web server. Ensure that the server is regularly updated with the latest security patches.
2. Replace: If upgrading is not possible, consider switching to a different, supported web server that meets your requirements.
3. Remove: Decommission and remove the obsolete web server if it is no longer needed.
4. Security Best Practices: Implement security best practices such as regular vulnerability scanning, applying security patches promptly, and securing server configurations.

References:

• Web Server End of Life Information