CVE-2021-20081 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus before version 11205 is affected by an Incomplete List of Disallowed Inputs vulnerability. This flaw allows a remote, authenticated attacker to execute arbitrary commands with SYSTEM privileges.

Understanding CVE-2021-20081

This CVE involves an incomplete list of disallowed inputs in ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus, leading to authenticated remote command execution.

What is CVE-2021-20081?

The CVE-2021-20081 vulnerability in ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus before version 11205 enables an authenticated attacker to run arbitrary commands with elevated privileges.

The Impact of CVE-2021-20081

The impact of this vulnerability is severe as it allows an attacker to gain full control over the system, potentially leading to data theft, system compromise, or other malicious activities.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-20081

This section covers the technical aspects of the CVE, including vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from an incomplete list of disallowed inputs, which can be exploited by a remote, authenticated attacker to execute arbitrary commands with SYSTEM privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus versions before 11205 are impacted by this vulnerability, exposing them to the risk of authenticated remote command execution.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the incomplete list of disallowed inputs, a remote attacker with authenticated access can exploit this vulnerability to execute malicious commands with SYSTEM privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-20081, immediate steps can be taken along with long-term security practices and regular patching.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update ManageEngine ServiceDesk Plus to version 11205 or above, monitor for any suspicious activities, and restrict access to vulnerable systems.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing least privilege access, conducting regular security assessments, and providing security awareness training can enhance the overall security posture.

Patching and Updates

Regularly applying security patches released by the vendor is crucial to address vulnerabilities like CVE-2021-20081 and ensure the system's resilience against potential attacks.