CVE-2021-1221 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in the user interface of Cisco Webex Meetings and Cisco Webex Meetings Server Software could allow an authenticated, remote attacker to inject a hyperlink into a meeting invitation email. The vulnerability is due to insufficient input validation, which could be exploited by entering a URL into a field in the user interface. This could lead to the generation of a Webex Meetings invitation email containing a link to a destination of the attacker's choosing. The impact includes an increased likelihood of recipients clicking the malicious link.

Understanding CVE-2021-1221

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

What is CVE-2021-1221?

CVE-2021-1221 is a vulnerability in Cisco Webex Meetings and Cisco Webex Meetings Server Software that enables a remote attacker to insert a harmful hyperlink into meeting invites.

The Impact of CVE-2021-1221

The vulnerability allows an attacker to craft emails from trusted sources, increasing the chances of users interacting with malicious links.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-1221

Below are the technical specifics of the vulnerability:

Vulnerability Description

Insufficient input validation in Cisco Webex Meetings Software allows remote attackers to inject hyperlinks into meeting invitations.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected product is Cisco WebEx Meetings Server with the vulnerability present in all versions.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers exploit the flaw by adding URLs to specific fields in the user interface to generate nefarious meeting invitations.

Mitigation and Prevention

Here are the steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-1221:

Immediate Steps to Take

Implement strict email security protocols and educate users about the risks of clicking unverified links.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular security training, keeping software updated, and monitoring email traffic for suspicious activity are essential for long-term security.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by Cisco promptly to eliminate the vulnerability.