CVE-2021-38645
Published: November 3, 2021
Official Description
Microsoft Open Management Infrastructure (OMI) within Azure VM Management Extensions contains an unspecified vulnerability that allows for privilege escalation.
CISA KEV Advisory
Microsoft Open Management Infrastructure (OMI) Privilege Escalation Vulnerability
Microsoft Open Management Infrastructure (OMI) within Azure VM Management Extensions contains an unspecified vulnerability that allows for privilege escalation.
Apply updates per vendor instructions.
Risk Analysis
This unspecified vulnerability in Microsoft Open Management Infrastructure (OMI) within Azure VM Management Extensions allows for privilege escalation. Given its high severity and confirmed exploitation in the wild, it presents a significant risk for systems utilizing Azure VM Management Extensions. The EPSS score of 0.14607 indicates a notable likelihood of exploitation.
This vulnerability is actively exploited in the wild and is listed in CISA's KEV catalog. The specific exploitation vector is not detailed but leads to privilege escalation.
Apply the latest security updates for Microsoft Open Management Infrastructure (OMI) within Azure VM Management Extensions. Ensure all Azure VMs are regularly patched and configured with least privilege.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2021-38645 requires local access, meaning attackers must already have a foothold on the target system.
Exploitation requires some privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
CISA has added CVE-2021-38645 to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, confirming active exploitation in the wild. U.S. federal agencies are required to patch this within the mandated timeframe, and all organizations should treat remediation as urgent.
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (1)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2021-38645 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts
- !CISA KEV: Federal agencies must patch per BOD 22-01 timeline
- !Active exploitation confirmed — treat as P1