CVE-2021-31539 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2021-31539, a vulnerability in Wowza Streaming Engine before 4.8.8.01 allowing local users to read cleartext passwords. Find out the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.
Wowza Streaming Engine before version 4.8.8.01 (in default installation) stores cleartext passwords in the conf/admin.password file, allowing a local user to access usernames and passwords.
Understanding CVE-2021-31539
This CVE refers to a vulnerability in Wowza Streaming Engine that exposes sensitive information due to insecure password storage.
What is CVE-2021-31539?
The CVE-2021-31539 vulnerability in Wowza Streaming Engine allows local users to read usernames and passwords due to the presence of cleartext passwords in the conf/admin.password file.
The Impact of CVE-2021-31539
The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it exposes sensitive credentials, potentially leading to unauthorized access and data breaches.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-31539
This section covers the technical aspects of the CVE-2021-31539 vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
Wowza Streaming Engine before version 4.8.8.01 stores passwords in cleartext format in the conf/admin.password file, making them accessible to local users.
Affected Systems and Versions
All systems running Wowza Streaming Engine versions prior to 4.8.8.01 in default installations are affected by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
Local users can exploit this vulnerability by gaining access to the conf/admin.password file to retrieve usernames and passwords.
Mitigation and Prevention
To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-31539, immediate actions and long-term security practices are essential.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Upgrade Wowza Streaming Engine to version 4.8.8.01 or later to address the vulnerability.
- Restrict access to critical system files to authorized personnel only.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Implement strong password policies and encourage regular password updates.
- Monitor system logs for any unauthorized access attempts.
Patching and Updates
Regularly check for security updates and patches provided by Wowza and apply them promptly to ensure the system's security.