Veeam has released urgent security updates for its widely deployed Backup & Replication platform after identifying multiple high-severity vulnerabilities, including flaws that could allow remote code execution (RCE) under certain conditions.
The issues affect Veeam Backup & Replication v13.0.1.180 and earlier v13 builds. Organizations running affected versions should apply the latest patches immediately.
What’s at Risk?
The newly released update (v13.0.1.1071) addresses several vulnerabilities that, if exploited, could allow authenticated users to execute code with elevated privileges. While some of these vulnerabilities require specific roles or access levels, they remain high-risk in real-world environments where credential compromise is common.
Key issues include:
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Remote code execution as the
postgresuser via manipulated interval or order parameters -
Remote code execution as root through maliciously crafted backup configuration files
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Arbitrary file write as root, which can be chained with other flaws for full system compromise
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Command execution via parameter injection leading to privilege escalation
Although there is no public indication of active exploitation at the time of disclosure, backup platforms remain high-value targets for ransomware operators and post-exploitation activity.
Why This Matters
Backup infrastructure is central to business resilience. When attackers compromise backup systems, they gain the ability to:
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Disable or delete backups before a ransomware deployment
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Tamper with backup catalogs and recovery points
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Use trusted backup servers as pivot points inside the network
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Undermine incident response and recovery efforts
Even when vulnerabilities require authenticated access, modern breaches routinely begin with stolen credentials obtained through phishing, infostealers, or password reuse.
Recommended Actions
If your organization is running Veeam Backup & Replication v13, we recommend the following steps:
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Upgrade immediately to v13.0.1.1071 or later
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Review and restrict Backup and Tape Operator privileges
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Audit recent backup server activity for anomalous behavior
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Enforce strong authentication, including multi-factor authentication
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Segment backup infrastructure from general user networks
Final Thoughts
This update is a reminder that security tools are still software and must be patched, monitored, and protected like any other critical system.
Backup platforms are designed to support recovery during an incident. Leaving them vulnerable allows attackers to turn recovery systems into attack surfaces.
If these patches have not yet been applied, this should be treated as a high-priority remediation item.
If you need assistance validating your backup environment, reviewing access controls, or assessing post-patch risk, Critical Path Security can help.
References
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The Hacker News – Veeam Patches Critical RCE Vulnerabilities in Backup & Replication
https://thehackernews.com/2026/01/veeam-patches-critical-rce.html -
Security Online – Veeam Addresses Critical RCE Flaws in Backup & Replication
https://securityonline.info/veeam-patches-critical-rce-flaws-in-latest-backup-replication-release/ -
H-ISAC Vulnerability Bulletin – Multiple Vulnerabilities Addressed in Veeam Backup & Replication
https://www.aha.org/h-isac-white-reports/2026-01-07-h-isac-tlp-white-vulnerability-bulletin-multiple-vulnerabilities-addressed-veeam-backup
