CVE-2021-32591 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Fortinet products including FortiSandbox, FortiWeb, FortiADC, and FortiMail before specific versions are affected by a cryptographic vulnerability that may allow attackers to compromise encrypted credentials.

Understanding CVE-2021-32591

This CVE involves a missing cryptographic steps vulnerability that impacts the confidentiality of users' LDAP and RADIUS credentials in Fortinet products.

What is CVE-2021-32591?

CVE-2021-32591 is a vulnerability in Fortinet products that encrypts users' LDAP and RADIUS credentials allowing attackers to compromise the confidentiality of encrypted secrets.

The Impact of CVE-2021-32591

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 5.0, with medium severity, high confidentiality impact, and low privileges required for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-32591

The vulnerability affects FortiSandbox before 4.0.1, FortiWeb before 6.3.12, FortiADC before 6.2.1, and FortiMail 7.0.1 and earlier.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in the encryption function exposes users' credentials, potentially leading to unauthorized access.

Affected Systems and Versions

FortiSandbox before 4.0.1, FortiWeb before 6.3.12, FortiADC before 6.2.1, and FortiMail 7.0.1 and earlier versions are susceptible.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with access to the password store can exploit the vulnerability to compromise encrypted secrets.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2021-32591, immediate steps are required to mitigate risks and secure affected systems.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations should apply patches provided by Fortinet and restrict access to sensitive credentials.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure credential management practices and regularly update systems to prevent future vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates from Fortinet and apply patches promptly to protect systems.