CVE-2021-23886 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A Denial of Service vulnerability in McAfee Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Endpoint for Windows has been identified, allowing a local, low privileged attacker to cause a Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) by manipulating memory processes.

Understanding CVE-2021-23886

This CVE involves a vulnerability in McAfee DLP Endpoint for Windows that enables a specific kind of denial-of-service attack.

What is CVE-2021-23886?

The CVE-2021-23886 vulnerability occurs in McAfee Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Endpoint for Windows before version 11.6.100. It allows a local attacker with low privileges to execute a BSoD attack by suspending a process, altering the process memory, and then restarting it. The issue is triggered by the hdlphook driver reading invalid memory.

The Impact of CVE-2021-23886

This vulnerability has a base CVSS score of 5.5, indicating a medium severity issue. With a low attack complexity and vector being local, the impact on availability is high. However, there is no impact on confidentiality or integrity. Low privileges are required for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-23886

This section delves into the specific technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in McAfee DLP Endpoint for Windows versions prior to 11.6.100, allowing the attacker to trigger a BSoD by manipulating memory processes through the hdlphook driver.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts McAfee Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Endpoint for Windows versions less than 11.6.100.41.

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker with low privileges can induce a BSoD by suspending a process, altering its memory, and then restarting it through the hdlphook driver.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2021-23886 involves taking immediate steps and implementing long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update McAfee DLP Endpoint for Windows to version 11.6.100 or higher to mitigate the vulnerability. Additionally, monitoring for any suspicious activities can help detect exploitation attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

To enhance security posture, organizations should enforce the principle of least privilege, apply regular security patches, and conduct security trainings to educate users on potential threats.

Patching and Updates

Regularly applying security patches and updates from McAfee can help address vulnerabilities and strengthen system defenses.