CVE-2021-21416 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

In django-registration prior to version 3.1.2, a vulnerability allowed sensitive data to be included in error reports, potentially exposing user credentials. Learn about the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps for CVE-2021-21416.

Understanding CVE-2021-21416

This CVE highlights a security flaw in django-registration that could lead to the disclosure of sensitive information during error reports.

What is CVE-2021-21416?

The vulnerability in django-registration allowed detailed error reports to contain sensitive user data, including login credentials, if triggered under specific conditions.

The Impact of CVE-2021-21416

The disclosure of sensitive information in error reports could compromise user account security and privacy, leading to potential unauthorized access.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-21416

The vulnerability is characterized by high attack complexity, requiring local access and high privileges, but with a low severity base score.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from the lack of proper filtering of sensitive data in the base user-account registration view, resulting in potential leaks in error reports.

Affected Systems and Versions

Systems using django-registration versions prior to 3.1.2 are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Triggering the vulnerability involves encountering a server-side error during the user registration process, leading to the exposure of submitted data in error reports.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2021-21416, immediate steps and long-term security practices should be implemented to protect user data and prevent unauthorized access.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update django-registration to version 3.1.2 or higher to mitigate the vulnerability and ensure sensitive user information is not exposed in error reports.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit error reports to identify and address any potential leaks of sensitive data.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and promptly apply patches and updates to protect against known vulnerabilities in django-registration.