CVE-2021-29551 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

TensorFlow is an end-to-end open-source platform for machine learning. The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-29551 exists due to a flaw in the implementation of

MatrixTriangularSolve

function. This vulnerability affects TensorFlow versions < 2.1.4, >= 2.2.0 and < 2.2.3, >= 2.3.0 and < 2.3.3, and >= 2.4.0 and < 2.4.2. An attacker could exploit this flaw to perform an out-of-bounds read, potentially leading to local denial of service or sensitive data exposure.

Understanding CVE-2021-29551

This section delves deeper into the details of the CVE-2021-29551 vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2021-29551?

CVE-2021-29551 is an out-of-bounds read vulnerability in the

MatrixTriangularSolve

function of TensorFlow, affecting multiple versions of the software. By exploiting this vulnerability, an adversary could trigger kernel execution failures, leading to a denial of service condition or potential exposure of confidential information.

The Impact of CVE-2021-29551

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as low severity. However, if successfully exploited, it could result in local denial of service or unauthorized access to sensitive information stored or processed by TensorFlow.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-29551

The technical aspect of CVE-2021-29551 covers the vulnerability description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism employed by potential attackers.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in the implementation of the

MatrixTriangularSolve

function allows for an out-of-bounds read, which can be leveraged by threat actors to disrupt kernel execution and potentially extract sensitive data processed by TensorFlow.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts TensorFlow versions < 2.1.4, >= 2.2.0 and < 2.2.3, >= 2.3.0 and < 2.3.3, and >= 2.4.0 and < 2.4.2. Users of these versions are at risk of exploitation and are advised to take immediate action to secure their systems.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit CVE-2021-29551, attackers could craft malicious inputs that trigger the out-of-bounds read condition in the

MatrixTriangularSolve

function, leading to unauthorized access or disruption of normal kernel execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section provides guidance on steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-29551, ensuring the security of TensorFlow installations.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are strongly advised to update their TensorFlow installations to versions where the vulnerability has been patched. Additionally, monitoring for unusual activities or unauthorized access attempts can help detect exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, conducting regular security audits, and staying informed about software vulnerabilities can help in preventing similar issues in the future.

Patching and Updates

TensorFlow users should promptly apply patches released by the TensorFlow project to address the CVE-2021-29551 vulnerability and protect their systems from potential exploitation.