CVE-2021-1252 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2021-1252 impacting Cisco's Clam AntiVirus (ClamAV) Software versions 0.103.0 and 0.103.1. Unauthenticated attackers could exploit the Excel XLM macro parsing module, causing denial of service.
A vulnerability in the Excel XLM macro parsing module in Clam AntiVirus (ClamAV) Software versions 0.103.0 and 0.103.1 could allow an unauthenticated, remote attacker to cause a denial of service condition on an affected device. This article provides insights into CVE-2021-1252 affecting Cisco's ClamAV.
Understanding CVE-2021-1252
This section delves into the details of the vulnerability, its impact, technical aspects, and mitigation strategies.
What is CVE-2021-1252?
CVE-2021-1252 involves a vulnerability in the Excel XLM macro parsing module in Clam AntiVirus (ClamAV) Software versions 0.103.0 and 0.103.1. It could be exploited by an attacker to execute a denial of service attack.
The Impact of CVE-2021-1252
The vulnerability can be leveraged by an unauthenticated, remote attacker to trigger an infinite loop in the ClamAV scanning process, leading to a denial of service condition on the affected device. The severity of the impact is rated as high with a CVSS base score of 7.5.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-1252
This section provides deeper insights into the vulnerability, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The issue arises from improper error handling in the Excel XLM macro parsing module, allowing an attacker to craft a malicious Excel file that triggers an infinite loop, resulting in the ClamAV scanning process hanging.
Affected Systems and Versions
Clam AntiVirus (ClamAV) Software versions 0.103.0 and 0.103.1 are impacted by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
An attacker could exploit this vulnerability by sending a specially crafted Excel file to a vulnerable system, causing the ClamAV scanning process to hang and leading to a denial of service.
Mitigation and Prevention
To safeguard systems from CVE-2021-1252, immediate and long-term security measures need to be implemented.
Immediate Steps to Take
It is recommended to apply the security patch released by Cisco to mitigate the vulnerability. Ensure all ClamAV installations are updated promptly.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implement proper input validation mechanisms and security best practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.
Patching and Updates
Regularly check for security updates and apply patches provided by the vendor to address known vulnerabilities in ClamAV.