CVE-2021-23369 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A detailed overview of CVE-2021-23369 focusing on the Remote Code Execution vulnerability found in handlebars package.

Understanding CVE-2021-23369

This section will cover what CVE-2021-23369 is, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2021-23369?

The package handlebars before 4.7.7 is vulnerable to Remote Code Execution (RCE) due to certain compiling options that allow the execution of malicious code from an untrusted source.

The Impact of CVE-2021-23369

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as MEDIUM severity with a CVSS base score of 5.6. It can be exploited remotely without any privileges, leading to code execution.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-23369

This section dives into the specifics of the vulnerability

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows attackers to execute code remotely by manipulating certain compiling options in handlebars versions prior to 4.7.7.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected product is 'handlebars' with versions less than 4.7.7, particularly custom versions.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious templates in untrusted sources and manipulating compiling options to achieve Remote Code Execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover the necessary steps to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2021-23369.

Immediate Steps to Take

Ensure you update the handlebars package to version 4.7.7 or higher to mitigate the vulnerability. Avoid compiling templates from untrusted sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update packages and libraries, implement secure coding practices, and conduct security audits to prevent future vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and patches released by vendors. Promptly apply updates to address known vulnerabilities.