CVE-2021-23893 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2021-23893, a privilege escalation vulnerability in McAfee Drive Encryption (MDE) that allows local non-admin users to gain elevated system privileges.
A Privilege Escalation vulnerability in a Windows system driver of McAfee Drive Encryption (DE) prior to 7.3.0 allows a local non-admin user to gain elevated system privileges.
Understanding CVE-2021-23893
This CVE highlights a security flaw in McAfee Drive Encryption (MDE) that could potentially lead to privilege escalation on affected systems.
What is CVE-2021-23893?
The CVE-2021-23893 vulnerability exists in versions of McAfee Drive Encryption (MDE) that are lower than 7.3.0 HF1. An attacker with local access could exploit this flaw to elevate their system privileges.
The Impact of CVE-2021-23893
The impact of this vulnerability is rated as HIGH, with a CVSS base score of 8.8. It poses a significant threat to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-23893
This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability allows a local non-admin user to gain elevated system privileges by exploiting an unutilized memory buffer in the McAfee Drive Encryption system driver.
Affected Systems and Versions
McAfee Drive Encryption (MDE) versions lower than 7.3.0 HF1 are affected by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
The exploitation of this vulnerability involves leveraging the unutilized memory buffer to escalate privileges on the Windows system where McAfee Drive Encryption is installed.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2021-23893 and prevent potential exploitation, certain mitigation strategies can be implemented.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to update their McAfee Drive Encryption software to version 7.3.0 HF1 or higher to mitigate the vulnerability and prevent privilege escalation.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly updating software and applying security patches is essential to maintain a secure environment and protect against known vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
McAfee users should regularly check for updates and security advisories from the vendor to address any security issues promptly.