CVE-2021-34821 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A Cross Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability has been identified in the AAT Novus Management System version 1.51.2. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending malicious HTTP requests to non-existing URIs, potentially leading to remote code execution.

Understanding CVE-2021-34821

This section provides insights into the nature and impact of the CVE-2021-34821 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-34821?

The CVE-2021-34821 is a Cross Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability present in the AAT Novus Management System version 1.51.2. It occurs due to improper HTTP 404 error handling in the WebUI, allowing attackers to inject malicious scripts into the application.

The Impact of CVE-2021-34821

The impact of this vulnerability is severe as remote, unauthenticated attackers can perform various malicious activities like executing arbitrary code, stealing sensitive data, or performing unauthorized actions on behalf of legitimate users.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-34821

In this section, we delve into the technical aspects related to CVE-2021-34821.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the incorrect handling of HTTP 404 errors in the AAT Novus Management System, enabling attackers to insert malicious scripts into non-existing URIs.

Affected Systems and Versions

The CVE-2021-34821 affects AAT Novus Management System version 1.51.2. Users of this version are at risk of exploitation by remote attackers.

Exploitation Mechanism

By sending crafted HTTP requests to URLs with non-existing paths, attackers can exploit this vulnerability to inject malicious code into the application, potentially compromising its integrity and security.

Mitigation and Prevention

In this section, we outline the steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-34821.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update the AAT Novus Management System to the latest patched version to prevent exploitation of the XSS vulnerability. Additionally, implementing proper input validation mechanisms can help reduce the risk of XSS attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

It is recommended to educate developers and users about secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future. Regular security assessments and code reviews can aid in identifying and addressing security flaws.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates released by the vendor for the AAT Novus Management System. Promptly apply patches and updates to ensure that your system is protected from known vulnerabilities.