Learn about CVE-2021-36370 affecting Midnight Commander through version 4.8.26, allowing unauthorized SFTP server connections. Find mitigation steps and long-term security practices.
An issue was discovered in Midnight Commander through version 4.8.26. This vulnerability allows a user to connect to an SFTP server without verifying its authenticity, as the server's fingerprint is neither checked nor displayed during the connection process.
Understanding CVE-2021-36370
This section provides insights into the impact and technical details of the CVE-2021-36370 vulnerability.
What is CVE-2021-36370?
The vulnerability in Midnight Commander enables users to establish SFTP connections without the necessary server authenticity verification, potentially leading to security risks.
The Impact of CVE-2021-36370
The lack of server fingerprint verification in Midnight Commander may allow malicious servers to intercept connections, posing a significant security threat to users accessing remote servers.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-36370
Explore the specific technical aspects of the CVE-2021-36370 vulnerability to understand its implications further.
Vulnerability Description
The issue arises in Midnight Commander versions up to 4.8.26, where the SFTP connection setup omits the server fingerprint verification step, compromising the authenticity of server connections.
Affected Systems and Versions
All systems running the vulnerable versions of Midnight Commander, up to and including 4.8.26, are at risk of exploitation through this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can potentially exploit this vulnerability by setting up malicious servers to intercept connections established by users, leading to unauthorized access and potential data breaches.
Mitigation and Prevention
Discover the recommended steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-36370 and prevent exploitation.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to exercise caution when connecting to SFTP servers using Midnight Commander and consider alternative tools or updated versions that address this vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing secure connection protocols and regularly updating software can help mitigate the risks of unauthorized access and data breaches.
Patching and Updates
It is crucial to apply the latest updates and patches provided by the Midnight Commander project to address the CVE-2021-36370 vulnerability and enhance the security of SFTP connections.