CVE-2021-23408 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE-2021-23408 article provides insights into a vulnerability termed Prototype Pollution found in the package com.graphhopper:graphhopper-web-bundle. The vulnerability affects versions prior to 3.2, from 4.0-pre1, and before 4.0, allowing for potential object manipulation through specially crafted payloads.

Understanding CVE-2021-23408

CVE-2021-23408, also known as Prototype Pollution, has a base score of 5.4 (Medium severity) based on CVSS v3.1 metrics. It was made public on July 21, 2021.

What is CVE-2021-23408?

CVE-2021-23408 concerns a security flaw in com.graphhopper:graphhopper-web-bundle versions earlier than 3.2, starting from 4.0-pre1 up to, but not including, 4.0. The vulnerability enables attackers to manipulate the Object.prototype properties using malicious constructor or proto payloads.

The Impact of CVE-2021-23408

This vulnerability poses a Medium severity risk with a CVSS base score of 5.4. Although the attack complexity is low and no privileges are required, an attacker needs user interaction to exploit the flaw. The integrity impact is none, but there is a potential for confidentiality impact.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-23408

CVE-2021-23408 involves the Prototype Pollution problem type with impacts on low confidentiality and availability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows for potential object manipulation by tricking the URL parser into adding or modifying Object.prototype properties using crafted payloads.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects versions of com.graphhopper:graphhopper-web-bundle before 3.2, from 4.0-pre1, and before 4.0.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability through network access, requiring user interaction and with low attack complexity.

Mitigation and Prevention

Understanding the immediate steps and long-term practices to mitigate the CVE-2021-23408 vulnerability is crucial.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update the affected software package to versions beyond 4.0 or install patches if available.

Long-Term Security Practices

Employing secure coding practices and regular security audits can help prevent similar vulnerabilities. Stay informed about security updates and best practices.

Patching and Updates

Refer to the source links provided for patches and updated versions to secure the affected systems and prevent exploitation.