CVE-2021-23883 : Security Advisory and Response

A Null Pointer Dereference vulnerability was discovered in McAfee Endpoint Security (ENS) for Windows before the 10.7.0 February 2021 Update. This flaw could allow a local administrator to trigger a Windows crash through a specific system call that is improperly handled.

Understanding CVE-2021-23883

This vulnerability, assigned CVE-2021-23883, poses a medium risk with a CVSS base score of 4.

What is CVE-2021-23883?

The Null Pointer Dereference vulnerability in McAfee Endpoint Security for Windows permits a local admin to crash Windows by exploiting an incorrectly managed system call.

The Impact of CVE-2021-23883

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as medium severity, affecting the availability of Windows systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-23883

The vulnerability is classified under CWE-476 (NULL Pointer Dereference) and is triggered by a local attacker with high privileges.

Vulnerability Description

A local admin can exploit the flaw to crash Windows via a specific system call mishandling.

Affected Systems and Versions

McAfee Endpoint Security (ENS) for Windows versions prior to 10.7.0 February 2021 are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability is exploited by a local admin making a specific system call that the software fails to handle correctly.

Mitigation and Prevention

To secure the system, immediate actions and long-term security practices are recommended.

Immediate Steps to Take

Ensure all systems are updated to the latest version of McAfee Endpoint Security to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update all software, maintain strict access control policies, and educate users on safe computing practices.

Patching and Updates

Keep up-to-date with security patches provided by McAfee to address and prevent vulnerabilities like CVE-2021-23883.