CVE-2021-21812 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2021-21812, a high-severity stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability in AT&T Labs' Xmill 0.7, allowing attackers to execute malicious code. Find steps for mitigation and prevention.
A stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability has been identified in the command-line-parsing HandleFileArg feature of AT&T Labs' Xmill 0.7. This vulnerability allows an attacker to execute malicious code by providing specially crafted input.
Understanding CVE-2021-21812
This section provides insights into the nature and impact of the CVE-2021-21812 vulnerability.
What is CVE-2021-21812?
The CVE-2021-21812 vulnerability is a stack-based buffer overflow in AT&T Labs' Xmill 0.7, triggered by user-controlled input passed via the command line. Attackers can exploit this flaw to potentially execute arbitrary code.
The Impact of CVE-2021-21812
With a CVSS base score of 7.8, this high-severity vulnerability can lead to compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems, posing a significant risk to data security.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-21812
Explore the specifics of the CVE-2021-21812 vulnerability to understand its implications and learn how to mitigate the risk effectively.
Vulnerability Description
The HandleFileArg function in AT&T Labs' Xmill 0.7 fails to validate the length of the user-provided filepattern argument before copying it into a buffer, leading to a stack-based buffer overflow.
Affected Systems and Versions
AT&T Labs Xmill 0.7 is confirmed to be impacted by this vulnerability. Users of this version are advised to take immediate security measures.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this flaw by submitting crafted input via the filepattern argument, causing a buffer overflow that may result in arbitrary code execution.
Mitigation and Prevention
Discover the recommended steps to address the CVE-2021-21812 vulnerability and safeguard your systems from potential exploits.
Immediate Steps to Take
It is crucial to update or patch the affected software to mitigate the risk. Implement restrictions on user input and conduct regular security audits to detect and prevent similar vulnerabilities.
Long-Term Security Practices
Adopt secure coding practices, conduct thorough code reviews, and implement least privilege principles to reduce the attack surface and enhance overall security posture.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security updates from AT&T Labs and follow their guidance on applying patches to address the CVE-2021-21812 vulnerability effectively.