CVE-2021-42009 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Apache Traffic Control Traffic Ops Email Injection Vulnerability allows an authenticated user to send emails with arbitrary content through a specially-crafted request. Upgrading to specific versions is recommended.

Understanding CVE-2021-42009

What is CVE-2021-42009?

An authenticated user in Apache Traffic Control Traffic Ops with specific privileges can manipulate requests to send emails with arbitrary content to any email address from the Traffic Ops server.

The Impact of CVE-2021-42009

Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized emails with arbitrary content being sent, posing a risk of information leakage.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-42009

Vulnerability Description

An issue exists in Traffic Ops that allows sending emails with arbitrary content via specially-crafted requests.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Apache Traffic Control
Vendor: Apache Software Foundation
Versions affected: 4.0.0 - 5.0.0

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker can create a crafted email subject to trigger unauthorized emails with arbitrary content to any email address.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade to Apache Traffic Control versions 5.1.3 or 6.0.0 (for 5.1.x users).
Upgrade to version 5.1.3 (for 4.1.x users).

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update user privileges and access levels.
Implement email validation checks and filters.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly to address known vulnerabilities.