Privilege Escalation via VQL Query in Velociraptor

Executive Summary

This vulnerability in Velociraptor allows users with the 'analyst' role to bypass permission checks and schedule new collections via VQL queries in notebooks. Normally, scheduling collections requires the 'investigator' role with COLLECT_CLIENT permission, but the authorization provider can be reset through a VQL query, enabling privilege escalation.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Detection Guidance

To detect this vulnerability, check Velociraptor server logs for unauthorized collection scheduling attempts by users with the analyst role. Look for VQL queries that reset the authorization provider or attempt to use collect_client() without proper permissions. Review notebooks for suspicious VQL queries that could escalate privileges.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Impact Analysis

An attacker with analyst-level access could escalate privileges to launch unauthorized collections, potentially accessing sensitive data or performing actions beyond their intended role. This could lead to data breaches, unauthorized monitoring, or disruption of forensic operations.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could violate compliance requirements by enabling unauthorized data access or collection, which may breach GDPR's data protection principles or HIPAA's access controls. Organizations using Velociraptor must ensure proper role-based access to maintain regulatory compliance.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Mitigation Strategies

Upgrade Velociraptor to version 0.77.2 or later to apply the fix. Review and restrict user roles, ensuring only authorized users have NOTEBOOK_EDIT and COLLECT_CLIENT permissions. Monitor for unusual collection activities and unauthorized VQL queries in notebooks.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0