CVE-2021-35237 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A missing HTTP header (X-Frame-Options) in SolarWinds Kiwi Syslog Server has exposed users to clickjacking vulnerability. Learn about the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps below.

Understanding CVE-2021-35237

This CVE relates to a vulnerability in SolarWinds Kiwi Syslog Server due to a missing HTTP header, making users susceptible to clickjacking attacks.

What is CVE-2021-35237?

CVE-2021-35237 highlights the absence of the X-Frame-Options header in Kiwi Syslog Server, leading to potential exploitation by clickjacking attackers.

The Impact of CVE-2021-35237

The vulnerability enables malicious actors to deceive users into interacting with elements on a website that are hosted on another server, compromising user and server security.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-35237

The vulnerability is rated with a CVSS base score of 5 (Medium severity) due to a high attack complexity, network-based attack vector, and low impact on availability, confidentiality, and integrity.

Vulnerability Description

The missing X-Frame-Options header in Kiwi Syslog Server allows attackers to perform clickjacking attacks, potentially leading to unauthorized server access.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Kiwi Syslog Server versions prior to 9.7.2, leaving users of these versions susceptible to exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers utilize transparent iframes to trick users into interacting with elements on a malicious site, redirecting user activities to the attacker's server.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard against CVE-2021-35237, immediate action and long-term security practices are recommended.

Immediate Steps to Take

It is advised to upgrade to Kiwi Syslog Server version 9.8, where SolarWinds has fixed the vulnerability by implementing the X-Frame-Options header.

Long-Term Security Practices

In addition to immediate upgrades, ensuring regular patching and updates, monitoring security advisories, and employing best security practices are crucial.

Patching and Updates

SolarWinds recommends customers to upgrade to the latest Kiwi Syslog Server version (9.8) upon availability, utilizing Microsoft IIS as the web server.