CVE-2021-20080 : What You Need to Know

ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus and ManageEngine AssetExplorer before specific versions are prone to a critical vulnerability that allows remote unauthenticated attackers to execute persistent cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks. Find out more about the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps below.

Understanding CVE-2021-20080

This section delves into what CVE-2021-20080 entails, the impact it has, and the technical aspects that make it a critical concern for affected systems.

What is CVE-2021-20080?

The vulnerability in ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus and ManageEngine AssetExplorer versions prior to specific numbers arises from insufficient output sanitization. Exploiting this flaw enables malicious actors to upload a specially crafted XML asset file, leading to persistent XSS attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2021-20080

The impact of this vulnerability is severe, as it allows remote, unauthenticated attackers to manipulate the affected systems through persistent XSS attacks. This can result in unauthorized access to sensitive data, compromising the security and integrity of the systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-20080

This section provides detailed technical insights into the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The insufficient output sanitization in ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus and ManageEngine AssetExplorer versions prior to specific numbers facilitates persistent XSS attacks. This occurs when a specially crafted XML asset file is uploaded by remote, unauthenticated attackers, leading to unauthorized manipulation of the systems.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus versions before 11200 and ManageEngine AssetExplorer versions before 6800. Organizations using these versions are at risk of exploitation and potential compromise.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2021-20080 involves uploading a maliciously crafted XML asset file to the affected systems. This action triggers persistent XSS attacks, enabling threat actors to compromise system integrity and unauthorized data access.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines immediate steps organizations and users can take to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2021-20080 and prevent potential exploitation in the future.

Immediate Steps to Take

Immediate actions include applying relevant patches, implementing network-level protections, and enhancing security configurations to mitigate the risk of persistent XSS attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Establishing secure coding practices, conducting regular security audits, and providing cybersecurity training can help organizations build a robust security posture and reduce vulnerability to XSS attacks.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely application of security patches released by ManageEngine for ServiceDesk Plus and AssetExplorer to address the vulnerability. Regularly update systems and software to prevent exploitation and enhance overall security.