CVE-2021-21825 : What You Need to Know

A heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability exists in the XML Decompression PlainTextUncompressor::UncompressItem functionality of AT&T Labs’ Xmill 0.7, potentially leading to remote code execution when processing a specially crafted XMI file.

Understanding CVE-2021-21825

This vulnerability in AT&T Labs’ Xmill 0.7 poses a significant risk due to its high severity CVSS score of 8.1.

What is CVE-2021-21825?

The CVE-2021-21825 CVE ID refers to a heap-based buffer overflow flaw in AT&T Labs’ Xmill 0.7, allowing an attacker to execute remote code by providing a malicious XMI file.

The Impact of CVE-2021-21825

The impact of CVE-2021-21825 is rated as high, with the successful exploitation of this vulnerability resulting in the compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-21825

The technical details of CVE-2021-21825 are as follows:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability is a heap-based buffer overflow in the XML Decompression PlainTextUncompressor::UncompressItem function of AT&T Labs’ Xmill 0.7.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects AT&T Labs Xmill 0.7 and Schneider Electric EcoStruxure Control Expert 15.

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by providing a specially crafted XMI file, triggering the heap-based buffer overflow and potentially leading to remote code execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-21825, follow these steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to a patched version of the affected software.
Avoid opening or processing XMI files from untrusted or unknown sources.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement network segmentation to contain any potential exploitation.
Regularly monitor and audit network traffic for any suspicious activity.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches provided by the vendor to address the heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in AT&T Labs’ Xmill 0.7.