CVE-2021-23792 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2021-23792, a vulnerability in com.twelvemonkeys.imageio:imageio-metadata allowing XXE Injection attacks. Discover the impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
A detailed overview of CVE-2021-23792, a vulnerability related to XML External Entity (XXE) Injection in the com.twelvemonkeys.imageio:imageio-metadata package before version 3.7.1.
Understanding CVE-2021-23792
This section provides insights into the nature of the vulnerability and its potential impact.
What is CVE-2021-23792?
The CVE-2021-23792 vulnerability arises from an insecurely initialized XML parser in the com.twelvemonkeys.imageio:imageio-metadata package. Attackers can exploit this flaw by providing a malicious XMP segment in a file, triggering an XML External Entity (XXE) Injection attack.
The Impact of CVE-2021-23792
With a CVSS base score of 7.3 (High Severity), the vulnerability allows attackers to execute XXE attacks if the XMP metadata of an uploaded image is parsed. This can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-23792
Explore the specifics of the vulnerability in terms of affected systems, exploitation methods, and more.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in com.twelvemonkeys.imageio:imageio-metadata before 3.7.1 enables malicious actors to conduct XXE Injection attacks through a flawed XML parser for managing XMP Metadata.
Affected Systems and Versions
Systems running versions earlier than 3.7.1 of com.twelvemonkeys.imageio:imageio-metadata are susceptible to this XXE vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
By supplying a file containing a malicious XMP segment, attackers can exploit the vulnerability. This becomes particularly risky when processing online profile pictures.
Mitigation and Prevention
Learn about the steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-23792.
Immediate Steps to Take
To address the vulnerability, users are advised to update the com.twelvemonkeys.imageio:imageio-metadata package to version 3.7.1 or newer. Additionally, avoid processing files with untrusted XMP metadata.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implement secure coding practices, conduct regular security audits, and educate users on safe file handling to prevent XXE Injection and similar attacks.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security patches released by the package maintainer and promptly apply updates to eliminate known vulnerabilities.