CVE-2021-21343 : Security Advisory and Response

XStream is a Java library to serialize objects to XML and back. A vulnerability in XStream before version 1.4.16 allows attackers to delete a file on the local host. This article provides insights into the CVE-2021-21343 vulnerability and its impact.

Understanding CVE-2021-21343

This section delves into the details of the XStream vulnerability and its potential consequences.

What is CVE-2021-21343?

XStream's vulnerability in versions prior to 1.4.16 allows the manipulation of input streams to delete files on the local host if the executing process has sufficient rights.

The Impact of CVE-2021-21343

The vulnerability poses a medium-severity risk with a CVSS base score of 5.3. It has a high integrity impact, requiring user interaction for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-21343

Explore the specific technical aspects of the XStream vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

XStream's flaw involves the unmarshalling process, enabling attackers to inject objects leading to file deletions on the local host.

Affected Systems and Versions

XStream versions below 1.4.16 are vulnerable to arbitrary file deletions, emphasizing the importance of updating to the latest secure versions.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can manipulate input streams during unmarshalling, taking advantage of XStream's instance creation based on type information to delete files.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover the steps to mitigate and prevent the XStream vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update XStream to at least version 1.4.16 to patch the arbitrary file deletion vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Adopt a whitelist approach to limit the types allowed by XStream's security framework, enhancing protection against such vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitor and apply security patches to XStream and related dependencies to address known vulnerabilities effectively.