CVE-2021-21543 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides an in-depth analysis of CVE-2021-21543, a vulnerability found in Dell EMC iDRAC9 versions prior to 4.40.00.00, which exposes the system to stored cross-site scripting attacks.

Understanding CVE-2021-21543

CVE-2021-21543 is a security flaw in Dell EMC iDRAC9 versions less than 4.40.00.00 that allows remote authenticated malicious users to execute malicious scripts through multiple parameters.

What is CVE-2021-21543?

This vulnerability in Dell's Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller (iDRAC) allows attackers to store and execute malicious JavaScript or HTML code when victim users access the vulnerable application, compromising system integrity.

The Impact of CVE-2021-21543

With a CVSS base score of 4.8 and a severity rating of Medium, this vulnerability poses a risk by exploiting multiple stored cross-site scripting vulnerabilities. Attackers with high privileges can perform remote attacks and compromise the vulnerable systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-21543

The following technical details outline the specifics of CVE-2021-21543.

Vulnerability Description

Dell EMC iDRAC9 versions less than 4.40.00.00 are plagued by multiple stored cross-site scripting vulnerabilities that enable remote authenticated attackers to inject malicious code through various parameters.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Dell's Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller (iDRAC) versions prior to 4.40.00.00, where attackers with high privileges can exploit the system.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can take advantage of this flaw by injecting malicious HTML or JavaScript code into specific parameters, and when accessed by victim users via their browsers, the malicious code gets executed within the context of the vulnerable application.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2021-21543 requires immediate action and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Administrators should update affected systems to version 4.40.00.00 or later to mitigate the risk of exploitation. They should also monitor for any signs of suspicious activities on the network.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices and conducting regular security audits can help prevent script injection attacks. User education on phishing and suspicious links is also crucial.

Patching and Updates

Regularly apply security patches from Dell to ensure systems are up to date with the latest fixes and improvements.