CVE-2021-23010 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2021-23010 affecting BIG-IP ASM/Advanced WAF systems, allowing denial of service attacks. Find mitigation steps and update recommendations.
A vulnerability in BIG-IP ASM/Advanced WAF versions prior to specific versions could allow an attacker to cause a denial of service (DoS) condition by triggering the production of a core file on the system.
Understanding CVE-2021-23010
This CVE identifies a flaw in the processing of WebSocket requests with JSON payloads by the BIG-IP ASM/Advanced WAF system, potentially leading to DoS attacks.
What is CVE-2021-23010?
The vulnerability exists in versions 16.0.x before 16.0.1.1, 15.1.x before 15.1.2, 14.1.x before 14.1.3.1, 13.1.x before 13.1.3.5, and 12.1.x before 12.1.5.3 of BIG-IP ASM/Advanced WAF. When JSON payloads are processed using the default JSON Content Profile, the system may generate a core file, impacting system availability.
The Impact of CVE-2021-23010
Exploitation of this vulnerability could result in a DoS condition, affecting the availability of services utilizing the affected versions of BIG-IP ASM/Advanced WAF.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-23010
This section provides more insight into the vulnerability, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises when WebSocket requests with JSON payloads are processed by the system using the default JSON Content Profile, leading the ASM bd process to create a core file.
Affected Systems and Versions
The vulnerability impacts BIG-IP ASM/Advanced WAF versions 16.0.x before 16.0.1.1, 15.1.x before 15.1.2, 14.1.x before 14.1.3.1, 13.1.x before 13.1.3.5, and 12.1.x before 12.1.5.3.
Exploitation Mechanism
An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending crafted WebSocket requests with JSON payloads to the affected system, triggering the creation of a core file and potentially causing a DoS condition.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2021-23010, immediate actions and long-term security measures need to be considered to protect the system from potential exploits.
Immediate Steps to Take
It is recommended to update the affected systems to the patched versions (16.0.1.1, 15.1.2, 14.1.3.1, 13.1.3.5, 12.1.5.3) to mitigate the vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implement robust security policies and regularly monitor system logs to detect any unusual activities that could indicate a potential DoS attack.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security updates provided by the vendor and apply patches promptly to safeguard the system against known vulnerabilities.