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CVE-2021-21826 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Learn about CVE-2021-21826, a high-severity heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability in AT&T Labs Xmill 0.7. Understand its impact, affected systems, exploitation method, and mitigation steps.

A heap-based buffer overflow vulnerability was discovered in the XML Decompression DecodeTreeBlock functionality of AT&T Labs Xmill 0.7, allowing attackers to exploit a flaw in the decompression process of XMI files. This issue has a CVSS base score of 8.1 and is classified as a high-severity vulnerability due to its potential impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Understanding CVE-2021-21826

This section delves into the specifics of the CVE-2021-21826 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-21826?

The vulnerability lies in the XML Decompression DecodeTreeBlock feature of AT&T Labs Xmill 0.7, where a heap-based buffer overflow occurs during the processing of XMI files. Malicious actors can exploit this weakness by providing a specially crafted file to trigger the overflow.

The Impact of CVE-2021-21826

With a CVSS base score of 8.1, CVE-2021-21826 poses a significant threat to affected systems. The high severity rating is due to the vulnerability's potential to compromise confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-21826

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE-2021-21826 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from a heap-based buffer overflow in the

DecodeTreeBlock
function of AT&T Labs Xmill 0.7, which mishandles input length validation, allowing an attacker to execute arbitrary code.

Affected Systems and Versions

AT&T Labs Xmill 0.7 and Schneider Electric EcoStruxure Control Expert 15 are affected by this vulnerability. Users of these versions should take immediate action to mitigate the risk.

Exploitation Mechanism

By manipulating a UINT32 value in a crafted XMI file, threat actors can exploit the vulnerability to trigger the buffer overflow and potentially execute malicious code on the target system.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover how to protect your systems from CVE-2021-21826 in this section.

Immediate Steps to Take

To safeguard against this vulnerability, users should apply security patches or updates provided by the software vendors. Additionally, consider implementing network-level controls to minimize the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Incorporating secure coding practices, conducting regular security audits, and staying informed about emerging threats are essential for maintaining a robust security posture.

Patching and Updates

Keep your software and systems up to date with the latest patches and updates to address known security issues and protect against potential exploits.

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