CVE-2021-23879 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A detailed guide to the unquoted service path vulnerability in McAfee Endpoint Product Removal (EPR) Tool prior to version 21.2, allowing local administrators to execute arbitrary code with higher privileges.

Understanding CVE-2021-23879

This CVE highlights a critical unquoted service path vulnerability in McAfee's EPR Tool, exposing systems to potential code execution by local admin users.

What is CVE-2021-23879?

The vulnerability in the McAfee Endpoint Product Removal Tool, before version 21.2, permits local admins to run malicious code with elevated privileges, exploiting a flaw in execution path enforcement.

The Impact of CVE-2021-23879

With a CVSS base score of 6.7 (Medium Severity), this flaw poses a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, requiring high privileges and no user interaction for exploitation.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-23879

Explore the specific technical aspects of the CVE-2021-23879 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

McAfee's EPR Tool, versions prior to 21.2, lack proper enforcement of the execution path, allowing local administrators to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects McAfee Endpoint Product Removal Tool versions before 21.2, specifically impacting users of version 21.x with custom installations.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploitation of this vulnerability requires the placement of files in a compromised folder by an authenticated local administrator, leveraging the lack of execution path protection.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover the essential steps to mitigate and prevent the exploitation of CVE-2021-23879.

Immediate Steps to Take

Local administrators should restrict access and monitor file execution in the EPR Tool directory and consider upgrading to version 21.2 or higher to mitigate the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement regular security audits, maintain least privilege access controls, and educate users on safe file execution practices to enhance overall system security.

Patching and Updates

McAfee has released version 21.2 to address this vulnerability. It is crucial to promptly apply patches and updates to safeguard systems against potential exploitation.