- by x32x01 ||
In today’s connected world, hackers constantly search for weak spots to break into systems. These security flaws - known as vulnerabilities - can lead to stolen data, ransomware, or full system compromise. Here’s a look at the Top 10 most exploited vulnerabilities that every tech user and organization should know about.
A serious flaw in Citrix ADC lets attackers run commands remotely on targeted servers. This means hackers can easily gain access and steal sensitive data if the system isn’t patched.
Tip: Always update Citrix devices and restrict external access to management ports.
Known as Zerologon, this bug hits Microsoft’s Netlogon service. It allows hackers to take over the Active Directory, giving them control of the entire network.
Tip: Patch Windows servers immediately and monitor domain controller activity.
This vulnerability in Microsoft Exchange Server became a nightmare for IT admins. Attackers could bypass login protections and execute commands, leading to massive email leaks and ransomware attacks.
Tip: Apply the latest Exchange updates and block external access to /owa until patched.
The infamous Equifax breach happened because of this flaw in Apache Struts. It allowed remote code execution and exposed millions of users’ private information.
Tip: Keep web frameworks updated and remove outdated plugins.
This bug in Internet Explorer let hackers infect users through malicious web pages.
Tip: Stop using outdated browsers and enable automatic security updates.
Attackers used this flaw to break into corporate VPNs, stealing credentials and sensitive files.
Tip: Change VPN passwords regularly and upgrade to the latest firmware.
Drupal, a popular CMS, had a serious vulnerability that let attackers inject malicious code and fully take over websites.
Tip: Always update CMS cores and plugins right after a new release.
A wormable bug in Windows Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) that reminded everyone of WannaCry. It allowed hackers to spread malware quickly across networks.
Tip: Disable RDP if not needed and use network-level authentication.
This vulnerability let attackers forge certificates, tricking users into trusting fake websites or updates.
Tip: Keep Windows fully updated and verify SSL certificates carefully.
A critical flaw in Atlassian Crowd, an identity management system, allowed attackers to control user accounts and systems remotely.
Tip: Limit admin access and update Atlassian tools immediately.
Cybercriminals are fast, but good security habits make you faster.
To stay safe:
CVE-2019-19781 - Citrix ADC and Gateway RCE
A serious flaw in Citrix ADC lets attackers run commands remotely on targeted servers. This means hackers can easily gain access and steal sensitive data if the system isn’t patched. Tip: Always update Citrix devices and restrict external access to management ports.
CVE-2020-1472 - Zerologon
Known as Zerologon, this bug hits Microsoft’s Netlogon service. It allows hackers to take over the Active Directory, giving them control of the entire network. Tip: Patch Windows servers immediately and monitor domain controller activity.
CVE-2021-26855 - Microsoft Exchange ProxyLogon
This vulnerability in Microsoft Exchange Server became a nightmare for IT admins. Attackers could bypass login protections and execute commands, leading to massive email leaks and ransomware attacks. Tip: Apply the latest Exchange updates and block external access to /owa until patched.
CVE-2017-5638 - Apache Struts (Equifax Breach)
The infamous Equifax breach happened because of this flaw in Apache Struts. It allowed remote code execution and exposed millions of users’ private information. Tip: Keep web frameworks updated and remove outdated plugins.
CVE-2018-8174 - Internet Explorer VBScript Engine
This bug in Internet Explorer let hackers infect users through malicious web pages. Tip: Stop using outdated browsers and enable automatic security updates.
CVE-2019-11510 - Pulse Secure VPN
Attackers used this flaw to break into corporate VPNs, stealing credentials and sensitive files. Tip: Change VPN passwords regularly and upgrade to the latest firmware.
CVE-2018-7600 - Drupalgeddon 2
Drupal, a popular CMS, had a serious vulnerability that let attackers inject malicious code and fully take over websites. Tip: Always update CMS cores and plugins right after a new release.
CVE-2019-0708 - BlueKeep
A wormable bug in Windows Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) that reminded everyone of WannaCry. It allowed hackers to spread malware quickly across networks. Tip: Disable RDP if not needed and use network-level authentication.
CVE-2020-0601 - Windows CryptoAPI Spoofing
This vulnerability let attackers forge certificates, tricking users into trusting fake websites or updates. Tip: Keep Windows fully updated and verify SSL certificates carefully.
CVE-2019-11580 - Atlassian Crowd
A critical flaw in Atlassian Crowd, an identity management system, allowed attackers to control user accounts and systems remotely. Tip: Limit admin access and update Atlassian tools immediately.
Final Thoughts - Stay One Step Ahead
Cybercriminals are fast, but good security habits make you faster.To stay safe:
- Apply patches regularly
- Use endpoint protection
- Monitor network activity
- Educate your team
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