CVE-2021-2256 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability has been identified in the Oracle Storage Cloud Software Appliance product of Oracle Storage Gateway. This vulnerability, assigned CVE-2021-2256, has a base score of 10.0 (Critical severity) in CVSS 3.1 and affects versions prior to 16.3.1.4.2. An unauthenticated attacker with network access via HTTP can exploit this vulnerability, potentially leading to a complete takeover of the Oracle Storage Cloud Software Appliance.

Understanding CVE-2021-2256

This section will provide insights into what CVE-2021-2256 entails.

What is CVE-2021-2256?

The vulnerability lies in the Oracle Storage Cloud Software Appliance product, particularly in the Management Console component. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can compromise the appliance, impacting additional products and potentially taking over the entire system.

The Impact of CVE-2021-2256

Successful exploitation of this vulnerability can result in a complete compromise of the Oracle Storage Cloud Software Appliance. The confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system are at high risk, with a CVSS 3.1 base score of 10.0.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-2256

This section will delve into the technical aspects of CVE-2021-2256.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows unauthenticated attackers with network access via HTTP to compromise the Oracle Storage Cloud Software Appliance, potentially leading to a complete system takeover.

Affected Systems and Versions

Versions of the Oracle Storage Cloud Software Appliance prior to 16.3.1.4.2 are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by gaining network access via HTTP, allowing them to compromise the Oracle Storage Cloud Software Appliance.

Mitigation and Prevention

In this section, we will discuss how to mitigate and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2021-2256.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update the Oracle Storage Cloud Software Appliance to version 16.3.1.4.2 or later to address this vulnerability immediately.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strong network security measures, access controls, and regular security updates can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for security updates and patches from Oracle to ensure the Oracle Storage Cloud Software Appliance is secure and up to date.