Microsoft Warns of New SQL Server to Cloud Lateral Movement Attack
Attackers are using a new technique to move laterally to a cloud environment through a SQL Server instance.
The attack begins with the exploitation of a SQL injection vulnerability in an application within the target's environment.
The attacker can then use the cloud identity associated with the SQL Server instance to move laterally to other cloud resources in the environment.
Organizations can protect against this attack by implementing least privilege practices, ensuring that all applications are updated and secured, and using a security solution to detect and mitigate potential database vulnerabilities and anomalous activities.
Well y’all, in a recent blog post, Microsoft security researchers described a new attack technique that attackers are using to move laterally to a cloud environment through a SQL Server instance. This attack technique is a known technique that has been used in other cloud services, such as VMs and Kubernetes clusters, but it has not been seen before in SQL Server instances.
The attack begins with the exploitation of a SQL injection vulnerability in an application within the target's environment. This gives the attacker access to the SQL Server instance, where they can escalate their privileges and gain control of the cloud identity associated with the instance. The attacker can then use this cloud identity to move laterally to other cloud resources in the environment.
This attack is significant because it highlights the need to properly secure cloud identities. Cloud identities are often used to grant applications and services access to cloud resources. If an attacker is able to compromise a cloud identity, they can gain access to all of the resources that the identity has access to.
Microsoft recommends the following best practices to protect against this attack:
Implement least privilege practices when designing and deploying cloud-based and on-premises solutions. This means only giving applications and services the permissions and privileges that they need to function.
Ensure that all applications are updated and secured. This includes patching vulnerabilities and using strong passwords.
Use a security solution, such as Microsoft Defender for Cloud, to detect and mitigate potential database vulnerabilities and anomalous activities that may be an indication of a threat to SQL databases.
In addition to the above best practices, organizations can also take the following steps to protect against this attack:
Monitor network traffic for suspicious activity. This could include things like traffic to and from the IMDS endpoint, or traffic to known malicious IP addresses.
Implement security controls, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems, to block unauthorized access to cloud resources.
Educate employees about cybersecurity best practices, such as how to identify and avoid phishing emails and other social engineering attacks.
By taking these steps, organizations can reduce their risk of being successfully attacked by this technique.
Additional thoughts:
This attack is a reminder that the threat landscape is constantly evolving. Attackers are constantly developing new techniques to exploit vulnerabilities and gain access to systems and data. It is important for organizations to stay informed about the latest threats and to implement appropriate security measures to protect themselves.
The attack also highlights the importance of cloud security. As more and more organizations move to the cloud, attackers are increasingly targeting cloud environments. It is important for organizations to have a comprehensive cloud security strategy in place.
Finally, the attack is a reminder that everyone has a role to play in cybersecurity. Employees can help to protect their organization by being aware of the latest threats and by following security best practices.