The realm of work culture has significantly changed in recent scenarios where more people work from home and living room workstations. However, this convenience comes with a set of risks that can have a far-reaching impact if not managed adequately. Thus, the management and IT departments are more cautious about various devices relying on VPNs and remote monitoring and management (RMM) tools for better administration of systems. 

Like any new technology, RMM tools are prone to risks and can be used for malicious purposes. The threat actors build connections to a victim’s device and execute commands, exfiltrate data and stay undetected. 

What are RMM tools?

RMM software has simplified network management that allow IT experts to remotely solve problems, install software, and upload or download files to or from the devices. However, these connections are not always secure, and can be misused by the attackers to connect their servers to a victim’s device. These connections seem to be easily detected, so ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) groups had to adjust their methods and tactics.

It was found that the RaaS groups employed a technique known as Living off the Land, using legitimate IT tools to get remote control, navigate networks undetected, and steal the data. 

The attackers use RMM tools to blend in and evade detection, as these tools and their traffic are typically “ignored” by both security controls and organizational security policies, such as application whitelisting. 

There are mainly two methods used by the attackers to manipulate RMM tools:

• Using existing RMM tools: The threat actors gain initial access to the network of an organization using the already existing RMM tools. They exploit weak or default credentials or tool vulnerabilities to gain access without getting detected.
• Install new RMM tools: The threat actors install their preferred RMM tools by initially gaining access to the network. In such a case, they use phishing emails or social engineering techniques to lure victims into unwillingly installing the RMM tool on their network.

Strength and Weaknesses of RMM Tools

RMM tools are a double-edged sword. In one way, they provide the ability to remotely access, monitor, and manage IT infrastructure from virtually anywhere. This includes commonly employed tools such as Atera, TeamViewer, SolarWinds RMM, and Kaseya VSA. This allows them to easily troubleshoot issues, apply updates, and maintain system health without the need for physical presence. Beside all these, these capabilities can be exploited if they are not properly secured.

1. Security Vulnerabilities- RMM tools have access to sensitive areas of a network, which make them an attractive target for cybercrime. If they are not kept updated or configured correctly, they can become an entry point for malicious attackers. The vulnerabilities of RMM tools can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches and even ransomware attacks.
2. Insider Threats- As we can see, RMM tools are significant in managing remote endpoints, but at the same time, they pose risks if abused by the insiders. The illicit employees or contractors having access to these tools can intentionally cause harm, which can lead to data leaks and system disruptions.
3. Credential Mismanagement- RMM tools typically need credentials for access. If these credentials are not properly protected and managed, they can be stolen or compromised. This way, the attackers can gain unauthorized access over the whole IT environment.
4. Compliance and Privacy Concerns- Major industries are subject to strict regulatory compliance standards, such as GDPR or HIPAA. RMM tools may unintentionally collect and store sensitive data, which raises privacy concerns and potential violations of these standards, if not configured properly.

RMM Tools Examples

Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) tools are essential for IT administrators and Managed Service Providers (MSPs) for proactive monitoring, maintaining and securing IT infrastructures. RMM tools are used by threat actors for malicious purposes. Below are some of the top RMM tools in the market:

1. NinjaOne- NinjaOne is a powerful cloud-based RMM solution, which is easy to use and has automation capabilities. It offers endpoint monitoring, patch management, and remote control, making IT operations more efficient. NinjaOne has robust security integrations, for which it is a great choice for MSPs and IT teams, where they look to enhance system security.
2. ConnectWise Automate- ConnectWise Automate is a feature-rich RMM tool that provides automated IT asset management, remote access, and advanced reporting. It helps IT teams detect and resolve issues before they affect business operations. Its seamless integration with cybersecurity solutions makes it a preferred choice for businesses who are focused on security and efficiency.
3. Atera- Atera is an all-in-one RMM and Professional Services Automation (PSA) tool that is designed for IT professionals. It offers remote access, patch management, network discovery, and real-time alerts. Atera’s pay-per-technician pricing model makes it a cost-effective solution for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and MSPs.
4. Kaseya VSA- Kaseya VSA is a robust RMM tool that provides IT automation, endpoint management, and security monitoring. Its centralized dashboard enables IT teams to manage multiple endpoints efficiently while ensuring compliance and security across networks.

How can you defend RMM Tools?

You can implement the following strategies to reduce the chance of attackers in abusing RMM tools:

• Enforce Two-Factor Authentication: Implement two-factor authentication for all RMM access, VPNs, and critical software systems.
• Access Control Lists (ACLs): Implement ACLs for trusted IPs and encourage end customers to connect through VPN when roaming.
• Use Strong and Unique Passwords: Ensure that robust and unique passwords are employed for RMM accounts and other essential system accounts.
• Client SSL Certificates: Consider requiring client SSL certificates before you grant access to RMM systems.
• Employee Training: Educate and train the employees with RMM access to scrutinize communications from RMM service providers.
• Be aware with Job Offerings: Avoid providing explicit details about your software stack in public-facing job offerings, which can be exploited for targeted phishing.
• Patch and Update Regularly: Do a regular update and patch software applications, operating systems, and third-party tools to eliminate vulnerabilities.
• Client Education: Ensure to educate the clients to emphasize the importance of cyber security and develop security policies and guidelines for their employees.

Conclusion

Remote Monitoring and Management tools provide several benefits in improving IT efficiency and productivity. However, their potential risks shall also be kept in mind. These tools must be properly secured and a comprehensive security strategy shall be adopted to harness the benefits of RMM tools while eliminating the associated risks. Moving around with an environment of risks and threats, we must implement practices to protect the core of our organizations’ IT infrastructure. The intrusion from October 2022 confronts a complex and multifaceted cyberattack. It started with a deceptive email-based delivery of  a disguised executable and involved the use of several tools, tactics and lateral movement strategies by the malicious attackers. The ransomware deployment was finally unsuccessful at a domain-wide level, it emphasized on the importance of strong cyber security measures and proactive threat detection and response mechanisms.

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