CVE-2021-33452 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

An issue was discovered in NASM version 2.16rc0 with memory leaks in nasm_malloc() in nasmlib/alloc.c.

Understanding CVE-2021-33452

This CVE identifies memory leaks in NASM version 2.16rc0, impacting the security and performance of the software.

What is CVE-2021-33452?

NASM version 2.16rc0 is found to have memory leaks in the nasm_malloc() function located in nasmlib/alloc.c.

The Impact of CVE-2021-33452

The memory leaks in NASM version 2.16rc0 can lead to resource exhaustion, stability issues, and potential security vulnerabilities in systems using this version of NASM.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-33452

This section covers specific technical details concerning the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is due to memory leaks within the nasm_malloc() function in nasmlib/alloc.c, exposing systems to potential security risks.

Affected Systems and Versions

NASM version 2.16rc0 is the specific version affected by this vulnerability, impacting systems that utilize this particular version of NASM.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers could potentially exploit these memory leaks to trigger denial of service (DoS) attacks, escalate privileges, or execute malicious code on vulnerable systems.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2021-33452, it is crucial to implement the following mitigation strategies.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update NASM to a patched version that addresses the memory leaks in nasm_malloc(). It is essential to apply security updates promptly.

Long-Term Security Practices

Adopting secure coding practices, conducting regular security audits, and staying informed about software vulnerabilities are essential for long-term security.

Patching and Updates

Stay vigilant for security advisories related to NASM and promptly apply patches released by the vendor to ensure the security and stability of your systems.