CVE-2021-21547 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

Dell EMC Unity, UnityVSA, and Unity XT versions prior to 5.0.7.0.5.008 contain a plain-text password storage vulnerability. A local malicious user with high privileges may exploit this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access.

Understanding CVE-2021-21547

This CVE involves a security flaw in Dell's Unity, UnityVSA, and Unity XT versions that enables unauthorized access to system credentials stored in plain text.

What is CVE-2021-21547?

CVE-2021-21547 identifies a vulnerability in Dell EMC Unity, UnityVSA, and Unity XT versions before 5.0.7.0.5.008. When the Dell Upgrade Readiness Utility is executed, it exposes the Unisphere Administrator's credentials in plain text, potentially allowing a local user to compromise the system.

The Impact of CVE-2021-21547

The vulnerability poses a medium-severity risk with a CVSS base score of 6.4. Attackers with high privileges can exploit this flaw to compromise the system's confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-21547

This section explores the specifics of the vulnerability, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

Dell EMC Unity, UnityVSA, and Unity XT versions before 5.0.7.0.5.008 store the Unisphere Administrator's credentials in plain text, creating a security risk for local users with elevated privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts Dell Unity, UnityVSA, and Unity XT versions earlier than 5.0.7.0.5.008. Users of these versions are at risk of unauthorized access due to the plain-text password storage issue.

Exploitation Mechanism

By running the Dell Upgrade Readiness Utility, a local malicious user with high privileges can extract the plaintext credentials of the Unisphere Administrator and potentially gain unauthorized access.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover the immediate steps and long-term security practices to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-21547.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update their Dell Unity, UnityVSA, and Unity XT versions to 5.0.7.0.5.008 or newer immediately to address the plain-text password storage vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement best practices for securing sensitive credentials, such as encrypting passwords and regularly updating software to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates released by Dell to address vulnerabilities like CVE-2021-21547 and ensure timely application to protect your systems.