For businesses that rely on secure email and collaboration solutions, Zimbra has long been a trusted platform. It offers the flexibility of being deployed on-premises, in the cloud, or even as a hybrid solution. But as with any widely used software, security vulnerabilities can emerge. This is why keeping systems updated and implementing comprehensive cybersecurity strategies is important.

Why Zimbra?

Zimbra is one of the most used products for organisations seeking a flexible and low-cost email and collaboration platform. This flexibility helps organisations decide where and how their data is stored to meet certain legal regulations and organisational security standards. If you want to manage the entire server infrastructure for full control or use cloud solutions, Zimbra offers the flexibility to do so.

In addition to that, the Zimbra comes with native security features such as two-factor authentication 2FA, and Web Application Firewall (WAF) integrations. This makes it a perfect solution for organisations that value security and privacy of their data. But even the most secure networks are not invulnerable to the threats. This was highlighted by a recent critical issue discovered in Zimbra’s postjournal service.

The Zimbra Vulnerability: What Happened?

In September 2024, a critical vulnerability (CVE-2024-45519) was found in Zimbra’s postjournal service. This vulnerability could allow attackers to execute commands on a server without needing authentication. As a result, affected systems are at risk of data breaches and malicious attacks. People began exploiting this flaw just one day after ProjectDiscovery’s researchers released its technical information.

The attack involves sending emails that look like they’re from Gmail but are actually directed at fake addresses in the CC fields. These emails include coded commands that Zimbra servers mistakenly handle. This has allowed attackers to access the server and set up a web shell. This web shell gives them access to the server from a distance, run more commands, or install bad software.

Because the vulnerability was serious, Synacor, which owns Zimbra, issued urgent patches for versions 8.8.15 Patch 46, 9.0.0 Patch 41, 10.0.9, and 10.1.1. However, businesses using older versions or those that didn’t apply the patches right away were at a high risk of being compromised.

How Managed IT Security Can Protect Your Business

With cybersecurity threats changing quickly, businesses can’t just rely on built-in security features. Managed IT security services provide the additional protection necessary to keep up with these threats. These services have experts who watch for and respond to security issues. They ensure that vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-45519 are handled quickly.

Here’s how managed IT security can protect your business from incidents like the Zimbra vulnerability:

Proactive Monitoring and Threat Detection

Continuous monitoring of your systems helps detect unusual activity early. This means that any unusual activity, like the unauthorised commands from the Zimbra postjournal vulnerability, would be spotted. These issues would be handled immediately.

Timely Patch Management

It’s important to apply patches as soon as they are released to prevent hackers from exploiting known vulnerabilities. Managed IT security providers ensure that all software and systems are updated quickly. This reduces the chances for hackers to exploit them.

Enhanced Security Configurations

Managed security services assess your systems to find and address vulnerabilities. For instance, they can turn off unnecessary features like the postjournal service if it’s not being used. They can also apply temporary fixes until a permanent patch is available.

Incident Response and Recovery

If there is a cybersecurity breach, a managed IT security provider can quickly contain the threat and stop any further damage. They can also restore your systems to normal. This helps reduce downtime and safeguards sensitive business data.

Comprehensive Risk Management

Managed security services assist your business in creating a strong cybersecurity strategy. This strategy follows industry best practices and compliance standards.

To learn more about how managed IT security can benefit your business, check out our IT Security services page.

Real-world Implications: How Organisations are Using Zimbra

Many organisations choose Zimbra for their communication needs because it offers customisation and strong security. For example, the Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP), one of the world’s largest political parties, needed a secure email system that followed strict privacy rules. As one of the largest political parties globally, the BJP needed a secure email solution that could meet strict privacy and control standards. The BJP was able to achieve complete ownership of the email data through Zimbra and ensured the security of their communications during critical political events.

AI Clinical Research SRL in Romania also relies on Zimbra to protect sensitive research information. Even a minor security flaw can lead to big problems for businesses like these. That’s why staying current with patches and using managed IT security services is essential.

Even with these benefits, the recent vulnerability in the postjournal service shows that no system is completely safe from threats. This is why it’s important for any organisation using Zimbra or similar platforms to conduct regular security assessments. 

What Should Zimbra Users Do Now?

If your business uses Zimbra, it’s important to act quickly to protect against the CVE-2024-45519 vulnerability:

• Update to the Latest Version: Make sure your Zimbra server is on the latest version (8.8.15 Patch 46, 9.0.0 Patch 41, 10.0.9, or 10.1.1) to help prevent exploitation.
• Disable Unnecessary Services: If you’re not using the postjournal service, consider turning it off or removing the binary file until the patches are applied.
• Use Web Application Firewalls (WAFs): WAFs add an additional layer of security by filtering and monitoring HTTP traffic. This helps prevent attacks directed at web applications.
• Regularly Monitor System Activity: Configure notifications for any activity in your Zimbra Admin Console and other sensitive systems.
• Talk to a Managed IT Security Provider: Get help from experts to ensure your Zimbra environment is secure and current.

Securing Your Business with Managed IT Security

The recent vulnerability in Zimbra highlights how cybersecurity threats are always evolving. There is a long history of cyberattacks in Australia. Consider partnering with a managed IT security provider like Empreus IT Support to keep your business safe. We’re here to help Canberra-based businesses protect their systems and data. For more information, reach out to Empreus IT Support at (02) 6189 1322, and we’ll help you secure your business systems effectively.