CVE-2021-29539 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A detailed overview of CVE-2021-29539, a vulnerability in TensorFlow related to a segfault in

tf.raw_ops.ImmutableConst

.

Understanding CVE-2021-29539

This section provides insights into the vulnerability identified as a segfault in

tf.raw_ops.ImmutableConst

in TensorFlow.

What is CVE-2021-29539?

CVE-2021-29539 is a vulnerability in TensorFlow, an open-source machine learning platform. It results in a segfault when calling

tf.raw_ops.ImmutableConst

with specific

dtype

values.

The Impact of CVE-2021-29539

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 2.5, indicating a low severity issue with high attack complexity and a local attack vector. It affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability to a limited extent.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-29539

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE-2021-29539 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

Calling

tf.raw_ops.ImmutableConst

with certain

dtype

values leads to a segfault due to incorrect assumptions about tensor contents.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts TensorFlow versions prior to 2.1.4, between 2.2.0 and 2.2.3, 2.3.0 and 2.3.3, and 2.4.0 and 2.4.2.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting the vulnerability involves triggering the segfault by passing inappropriate

dtype

arguments to

tf.raw_ops.ImmutableConst

.

Mitigation and Prevention

In this section, mitigation strategies and preventive measures for CVE-2021-29539 are discussed.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update TensorFlow to version 2.5.0 or use TensorFlow nightly packages post the patch commit to address the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Developers are advised to review code utilizing

tf.raw_ops.ImmutableConst

and implement filters for

dtype

arguments to prevent segfaults.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of TensorFlow updates and patches to mitigate the CVE-2021-29539 vulnerability.