CVE-2021-20252 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

A detailed overview of CVE-2021-20252, a vulnerability found in Red Hat 3scale API Management Platform 2 that could lead to denial of service attacks.

Understanding CVE-2021-20252

This section will provide insights into the nature and impact of the CVE-2021-20252 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-20252?

CVE-2021-20252 is a flaw discovered in Red Hat 3scale API Management Platform 2. It arises from inadequate handling of user-requested date ranges, potentially enabling a malicious authenticated user to trigger an internal server error via specific queries, causing a denial of service. The primary risk associated with this vulnerability lies in the disturbance of system availability.

The Impact of CVE-2021-20252

The vulnerability poses a significant risk to the availability of systems utilizing Red Hat 3scale API Management Platform 2. An attacker could exploit this flaw to disrupt services and potentially render the system non-operational, leading to business downtime and financial losses.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-20252

Explore the technical aspects and implications of CVE-2021-20252 in this section.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in the 3scale backend neglects to enforce preventive measures on user-requested date ranges within specific queries. This oversight enables a malicious authenticated user to input an extensive date range, eventually causing an internal server error and resulting in denial of service.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts Red Hat 3scale API Management Platform 2 as shipped by Red Hat. Systems utilizing this specific version may be vulnerable to exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

An authenticated user can exploit CVE-2021-20252 by submitting a request with an exceptionally large date range in certain queries. This triggers the internal server error, disrupting system availability and leading to a denial of service.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover key steps to mitigate and prevent the risks associated with CVE-2021-20252.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to apply relevant patches and updates provided by Red Hat to address the vulnerability promptly. Additionally, implementing stringent access controls and monitoring user activities can help detect and prevent potential exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Incorporating robust security measures, such as regular security assessments, employee training on secure coding practices, and staying informed about potential vulnerabilities, can enhance long-term defense against such threats.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitor for security advisories from Red Hat and promptly apply patches and updates to ensure systems are safeguarded against known vulnerabilities.