CVE-2021-27103 : Security Advisory and Response

Accellion FTA 9_12_411 and earlier versions are vulnerable to SSRF through a crafted POST request to wmProgressstat.html. The issue has been rectified in version FTA_9_12_416 and later.

Understanding CVE-2021-27103

This CVE identifies a Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF) vulnerability in Accellion FTA versions 9_12_411 and below, enabling attackers to send crafted POST requests to wmProgressstat.html.

What is CVE-2021-27103?

CVE-2021-27103 highlights the SSRF flaw in Accellion FTA, allowing threat actors to manipulate the server into making potentially malicious requests on their behalf.

The Impact of CVE-2021-27103

Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to internal systems, data exposure, and potential server-side attacks by leveraging the SSRF method.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-27103

This section provides insight into the specific technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

Accellion FTA 9_12_411 and earlier versions are prone to SSRF due to inadequate validation of client-side input, allowing attackers to interact with resources on the server that they are not supposed to access.

Affected Systems and Versions

The CVE affects Accellion FTA versions 9_12_411 and below, while the fixed version is FTA_9_12_416 and later. Users are strongly advised to update to the patched version to mitigate the risk.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting this vulnerability requires sending a carefully crafted POST request to the wmProgressstat.html endpoint, tricking the server into making unauthorized requests on the attacker's behalf.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems from CVE-2021-27103, organizations should take immediate action and implement robust security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Accellion FTA to version FTA_9_12_416 or higher to eliminate the vulnerability.
Monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity indicating SSRF attempts.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly audit and review server-side request handling to identify and patch SSRF vulnerabilities promptly.
Train employees on recognizing and reporting potential security threats to enhance overall cybersecurity posture.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates released by Accellion to address vulnerabilities promptly and ensure the protection of sensitive data.