CVE-2021-3064 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2021-3064, a critical memory corruption vulnerability in Palo Alto Networks GlobalProtect portal and gateway interfaces enabling attackers to execute code with root privileges.
A memory corruption vulnerability in Palo Alto Networks GlobalProtect portal and gateway interfaces allows an attacker to disrupt system processes and potentially execute arbitrary code with root privileges.
Understanding CVE-2021-3064
This CVE refers to a critical memory corruption vulnerability in Palo Alto Networks GlobalProtect portal and gateway interfaces.
What is CVE-2021-3064?
A memory corruption flaw in Palo Alto Networks GlobalProtect interfaces permits an unauthenticated attacker to execute code with root privileges by disrupting system processes. It affects PAN-OS 8.1 versions below 8.1.17, excluding Prisma Access.
The Impact of CVE-2021-3064
With a base score of 9.8/10, the vulnerability poses a critical threat to affected systems. Attackers could exploit it to execute arbitrary code with high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-3064
This section covers vulnerability description, affected systems, versions, and exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw enables unauthenticated attackers to disrupt system processes via GlobalProtect portal and gateway interfaces, potentially leading to code execution with root privileges.
Affected Systems and Versions
The vulnerability impacts PAN-OS 8.1 versions earlier than 8.1.17. Prisma Access versions 2.2 and 2.1 are unaffected.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers require network access to exploit the issue through the GlobalProtect interface.
Mitigation and Prevention
Discover immediate steps and long-term security practices along with patching and updates strategies.
Immediate Steps to Take
Enable unique threat ID signatures 91820 and 91855 to block attacks. SSL decryption is unnecessary for detection and prevention.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly update PAN-OS versions and implement strong security configurations and monitoring practices.
Patching and Updates
Install PAN-OS 8.1.17 and later versions to mitigate the vulnerability and ensure system security.