CVE-2021-23894 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A deserialization vulnerability in McAfee Database Security (DBSec) prior to version 4.8.2 could allow a remote attacker to execute arbitrary code on the server.

Understanding CVE-2021-23894

This CVE details an unauthorized deserialization vulnerability in McAfee Database Security (DBSec) that could result in a remote unauthenticated attacker gaining administrator privileges on the server.

What is CVE-2021-23894?

The CVE-2021-23894 vulnerability involves deserialization of untrusted data in McAfee DBSec before version 4.8.2, enabling an attacker to create a reverse shell with admin rights on the server.

The Impact of CVE-2021-23894

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as critical with a CVSS base score of 9.6 due to high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-23894

This section provides details on the vulnerability description, affected systems, versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows a remote unauthenticated attacker to execute arbitrary code on the DBSec server using a carefully crafted Java serialized object.

Affected Systems and Versions

McAfee Database Security (DBSec) versions prior to 4.8.2 are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by sending a malicious Java serialized object to the DBSec server, creating a reverse shell with admin privileges.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to mitigate the impact of CVE-2021-23894 and prevent future occurrences.

Immediate Steps to Take

Immediately upgrade McAfee DBSec to version 4.8.2 or higher and restrict network access to the server.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices, monitor network traffic for suspicious activities, and conduct regular security audits.

Patching and Updates

Regularly apply security patches provided by McAfee to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.