CVE-2021-36276 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Dell DBUtilDrv2.sys driver versions 2.5 and 2.6 contain an insufficient access control vulnerability that may result in privilege escalation, denial of service, or information disclosure. This CVE was published on August 2, 2021, by Dell.

Understanding CVE-2021-36276

This section will provide insights into the vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2021-36276?

The vulnerability is categorized as CWE-285: Improper Authorization. It allows a local authenticated user to exploit insufficient access controls in the Dell driver versions 2.5 and 2.6.

The Impact of CVE-2021-36276

The CVSS v3.1 base score for this CVE is 8.8, indicating a high severity level. It poses a significant risk in terms of confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-36276

Let's delve deeper into the specifics of this vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The insufficient access control vulnerability in Dell DBUtilDrv2.sys driver versions 2.5 and 2.6 enables local authenticated users to potentially elevate their privileges, cause denial of service, or access sensitive information.

Affected Systems and Versions

Systems running Dell DBUtil driver versions 2.5 and 2.6 are vulnerable to exploitation. It is crucial to identify and address these versions promptly.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of this vulnerability requires local authenticated access, making it critical for threat actors to gain a foothold on the system before executing malicious activities.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2021-36276 requires immediate action and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Organizations should restrict access to vulnerable systems, monitor for any unauthorized activities, and apply security patches or workarounds provided by Dell.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust access controls, regularly updating security configurations, and conducting security training for users can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from Dell and promptly apply patches or updates to ensure that systems are protected against known vulnerabilities.