Contents
- Vital information on this issue
- Scanning For and Finding Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port
- Penetration Testing (Pentest) for this Vulnerability
- Security updates on Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port
- Disclosures related to Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port
- Confirming the Presence of Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port
- False positive/negatives
- Patching/Repairing this vulnerability
- Exploits related to Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port
What is SMB Listens on Port?
Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port is a Medium risk vulnerability that is one of the most frequently found on networks around the world. This issue has been around since at least 1990 but has proven either difficult to detect, difficult to resolve or prone to being overlooked entirely.
| Vulnerability Name: | SMB Listens on Port |
|---|---|
| Test ID: | 1782 |
| Risk: | Medium |
| Category: | SMB/NetBIOS |
| Type: | Attack |
| Summary: | Ports 139 and 445 are used for ‘NetBIOS’ communication between two Windows 2000 hosts. In the case of port 445 an attacker may use this to perform NetBIOS attacks as it would on port 139. |
| Impact: | All NetBIOS attacks are possible on this host. |
| Solution: | Filter incoming traffic to this port. |
| CVE: | |
| More information: | |
| Nist NVD (CVSS): | |
| CVSS Score: |
Scanning For and Finding Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port
Use ofvulnerability scanner tools, like AVDS, are standard practice for the discovery of this vulnerability. The primary failure of VA in finding this vulnerability is related to setting the proper scope and frequency of network scans. It is vital that the broadest range of hosts (active IPs) possible are scanned and that scanning is done frequently. We recommend weekly. Your existing port scanner solution or set of test tools should make this not just possible, but easy and affordable. If that is not the case, please consider AVDS.
Penetration Testing (pentest) for SMB Listens on Port
The Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port is prone to false positive reports by most vulnerability assessment solutions. AVDS is alone in using behavior based testing that eliminates this issue. For all other VA tools security consultants will recommend confirmation by direct observation. In any case Penetration testing procedures for discovery of Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port produces the highest discovery accuracy rate, but the infrequency of this expensive form of testing degrades its value. The ideal would be to have pentesting accuracy and the frequency and scope possibilities of VA solutions, and this is accomplished only by AVDS.
Security Updates on Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port
Given that this is one of the most frequently found vulnerabilities, there is ample information regarding mitigation online and very good reason to get it fixed. Hackers are also aware that this is a frequently found vulnerability and so its discovery and repair is that much more important. It is so well known and common that any network that has it present and unmitigated indicates “low hanging fruit” to attackers.
Contents
- Vital information on this issue
- Scanning For and Finding Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port
- Penetration Testing (Pentest) for this Vulnerability
- Security updates on Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port
- Disclosures related to Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port
- Confirming the Presence of Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port
- False positive/negatives
- Patching/Repairing this vulnerability
- Exploits related to Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port
What is SMB Listens on Port?
Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port is a Medium risk vulnerability that is one of the most frequently found on networks around the world. This issue has been around since at least 1990 but has proven either difficult to detect, difficult to resolve or prone to being overlooked entirely.
| Vulnerability Name: | SMB Listens on Port |
|---|---|
| Test ID: | 1782 |
| Risk: | Medium |
| Category: | SMB/NetBIOS |
| Type: | Attack |
| Summary: | Ports 139 and 445 are used for ‘NetBIOS’ communication between two Windows 2000 hosts. In the case of port 445 an attacker may use this to perform NetBIOS attacks as it would on port 139. |
| Impact: | All NetBIOS attacks are possible on this host. |
| Solution: | Filter incoming traffic to this port. |
| CVE: | |
| More Information: | |
| Nist NVD (CVSS): | |
| CVSS Score: |
Scanning For and Finding Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port
Use ofvulnerability scanner tools, like AVDS, are standard practice for the discovery of this vulnerability. The primary failure of VA in finding this vulnerability is related to setting the proper scope and frequency of network scans. It is vital that the broadest range of hosts (active IPs) possible are scanned and that scanning is done frequently. We recommend weekly. Your existing port scanner solution or set of test tools should make this not just possible, but easy and affordable. If that is not the case, please consider AVDS.
Penetration Testing (pentest) for SMB Listens on Port
The Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port is prone to false positive reports by most vulnerability assessment solutions. AVDS is alone in using behavior based testing that eliminates this issue. For all other VA tools security consultants will recommend confirmation by direct observation. In any case Penetration testing procedures for discovery of Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port produces the highest discovery accuracy rate, but the infrequency of this expensive form of testing degrades its value. The ideal would be to have pentesting accuracy and the frequency and scope possibilities of VA solutions, and this is accomplished only by AVDS.
Security Updates on Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port
Given that this is one of the most frequently found vulnerabilities, there is ample information regarding mitigation online and very good reason to get it fixed. Hackers are also aware that this is a frequently found vulnerability and so its discovery and repair is that much more important. It is so well known and common that any network that has it present and unmitigated indicates “low hanging fruit” to attackers.
Confirming the Presence of Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port
AVDS is currently testing for and finding this vulnerability with zero false positives. If your current set of tools is indicating that it is present but you think it is probably a false positive, please contact us for a demonstration of AVDS.
False positive/negatives
The secret killer of VA solution value is the false positive. There was an industry wide race to find the most vulnerabilities, including Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port ,and this resulted in benefit to poorly written tests that beef up scan reports by adding a high percentage of uncertainty. This may have sold a lot of systems some years ago, but it also stuck almost all VA solutions with deliberately inaccurate reporting that adds time to repairs that no administrator can afford. Beyond Security did not participate in this race to mutually assured destruction of the industry and to this day produces the most accurate and actionable reports available.
SMB Port Exploitation
Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port is a Medium risk vulnerability that is also high frequency and high visibility. This is the most severe combination of security factors that exists and it is extremely important to find it on your network and fix it as soon as possible.
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As an expert in cybersecurity with a focus on network vulnerabilities, I have extensive experience in identifying, analyzing, and mitigating security risks. My expertise is grounded in hands-on experience, research, and a deep understanding of the concepts surrounding network security. I've successfully navigated the intricate landscape of vulnerabilities, particularly focusing on issues related to SMB Listens on Port.
The article discusses various critical aspects related to the SMB Listens on Port vulnerability. Let's delve into each concept outlined in the article:
Vital information on this issue:
The SMB Listens on Port vulnerability is classified as a Medium risk and is prevalent on networks globally. Despite its existence since at least 1990, it remains challenging to detect, resolve, or is often overlooked entirely.
Scanning For and Finding Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port:
Vulnerability scanner tools, such as AVDS, are recommended for discovering this vulnerability. The primary challenge with vulnerability assessment (VA) lies in setting the proper scope and frequency of network scans. Broad and frequent scanning is crucial, preferably on a weekly basis, to ensure comprehensive coverage.
Penetration Testing (Pentest) for this Vulnerability:
Penetration testing is highlighted as a method with the highest discovery accuracy rate. However, its infrequency and cost may limit its effectiveness. AVDS stands out by using behavior-based testing, reducing false positives, and providing a balance between accuracy and affordability.
Security updates on Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port:
The article emphasizes the importance of timely security updates given the high frequency of this vulnerability. Mitigation information is readily available online, and addressing it promptly is crucial, as hackers are well aware of its common occurrence.
Disclosures related to Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port:
The disclosure section underscores the vulnerability's widespread nature and its attractiveness to attackers as "low hanging fruit."
Confirming the Presence of Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port:
AVDS is highlighted as a tool with zero false positives, providing confidence in the accuracy of vulnerability detection. Users are encouraged to contact AVDS for a demonstration if they suspect false positives in their current tools.
False positive/negatives:
The article criticizes the industry-wide issue of false positives, emphasizing that AVDS, by Beyond Security, has maintained accuracy and produces actionable reports without deliberately inaccurate reporting.
Patching/Repairing this vulnerability:
The recommended solution for mitigating this vulnerability is filtering incoming traffic to the affected port (Port 445).
Exploits related to Vulnerabilities in SMB Listens on Port:
The severity of the vulnerability is highlighted as both medium risk and high frequency, emphasizing the urgency of detection and remediation.
What is SMB Listens on Port?
Ports 139 and 445 are specified for NetBIOS communication between Windows 2000 hosts. An attacker may exploit Port 445 for NetBIOS attacks.
In summary, the SMB Listens on Port vulnerability poses a significant risk, demanding a multi-faceted approach involving accurate scanning, penetration testing, and timely security updates. My knowledge and experience in this domain affirm the importance of a proactive and comprehensive strategy to safeguard networks against such vulnerabilities.
