The virtual world was shaken in early to mid-December of 2021 as many users of Apache Software Foundation’s Log4j logging utility noticed a crucial flaw within the system. Among others, Microsoft’s Minecraft was the first to see this flaw as they posted a warning to their java-based users of the threat of hackers. This flaw could lead to cyber-attacks and data breaches if not promptly fixed.
What is Log4j?
Most companies have all sorts of information they need to be able to store and retrieve daily. This is where logging systems come into play. Among the most used and favored is Apache’s Log4j, a Java-based system. From companies like Amazon, Cisco, and Atlassian to video game giant Minecraft, Log4j is used worldwide. This free-to-use logging utility is used for web apps, cloud services, and email platforms, all of which are part of many citizens’ daily lives. That is itself what makes this flaw so severe and crucial for a remedy.
What is the Problem?
The Log4j vulnerability, or Log4Shell, allows hackers to run any code within the system to perform all kinds of actions on the targeted computer. This all comes from the fact that Log4j has a feature that allows users to insert custom code to alter their data retrieval. As you can assume, this kind of feature, and the fact that Log4j is a free-to-use system, can and did lead to criminal acts and exploits.
How is it Being Exploited?
One of the exploits these nefarious hackers are doing is crypto-mining. This is the act of skimming crypto-currency from companies and users. I don’t know if you have heard, but crypto-currency is a big thing in this day and age. Some other exploits include data breaches, user identity theft, hijacking entire systems, and the list goes on. In the U.S., it is said that there are 10 million attempts per hour to exploit this flaw, most of which are targeted at retail services. There have even been accusations that hackers backed by China, Iran, North Korea, and Turkey have tried to exploit this flaw. This leads to significant threats to national security, not only to the U.S. but to any other country in which Log4j is commonly used.
Who is at Risk?
Any users of the Apache Log4j logging utility with versions 2.0 to 2.14.1 and all their frameworks are immediately threatened by this exploit. Many experts also believe that other java-based systems are at risk of this flaw, as well. Since Log4j is commonly packaged with other systems and software, it is hard to know if you are directly at risk. Contacting your software provider to confirm that you are using this system is an excellent first step in protecting yourself.
What is Being Done to Remedy this Flaw?
Many software companies and providers are scrambling to release patches to fix this flaw. However, since Log4j is not used in the same manner for all applications, no one-and-done patch can save this sinking ship. Some suggest simply upgrading your version to 2.15 or higher, which Minecraft chose. Others are opting to perform whole-system updates, as done by some Cisco routers. Many will have to remove the vulnerable code manually. U.S. and European government agencies are also working on remedies to help slow the Log4j threat.
The realization of Apache’s Log4Shell flaw was a shock to the virtual world. With millions of attempts to exploit this flaw already recorded, it is clear that this is not something to push aside. While a solution to this flaw may be months, if not years, away, users of the Log4j system need to stay vigilant and protect themselves from the threat at all costs.
How Can Small Enterprise Technology Help?
Learning the skill required to protect your data and training all staff successfully can be time-consuming and overwhelming for any company. Fortunately, Small Enterprise Technology is staffed with qualified business and technology professionals who focus on implementing and supporting every aspect of your company’s information technology requirements. To learn more about how Small Enterprise Technology can help your business stay protected from data leakages and loss, call or contact us today to get started!