CVE-2021-26686 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A remote authenticated SQL Injection vulnerability was discovered in Aruba ClearPass Policy Manager versions prior to 6.9.5, 6.8.8-HF1, and 6.7.14-HF1. This vulnerability in the web-based management interface API could allow an attacker to conduct SQL injection attacks against the ClearPass instance, potentially leading to unauthorized access and modification of sensitive data.

Understanding CVE-2021-26686

CVE-2021-26686 is a security vulnerability in Aruba ClearPass Policy Manager that allows authenticated remote attackers to exploit SQL injection vulnerabilities through the web-based management interface API. This could result in unauthorized access and manipulation of the database.

What is CVE-2021-26686?

CVE-2021-26686 is a remote authenticated SQL Injection vulnerability in Aruba ClearPass Policy Manager versions prior to 6.9.5, 6.8.8-HF1, and 6.7.14-HF1. Attackers with authenticated access could abuse this vulnerability to execute malicious SQL queries, potentially compromising the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive information stored in the database.

The Impact of CVE-2021-26686

The impact of CVE-2021-26686 is significant as it allows remote attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms and access sensitive data within the ClearPass instance. By exploiting this vulnerability, threat actors could potentially extract, manipulate, or delete critical information, leading to security breaches and privacy violations.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-26686

This section provides insights into the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Aruba ClearPass Policy Manager versions prior to 6.9.5, 6.8.8-HF1, and 6.7.14-HF1 enables remote authenticated attackers to execute malicious SQL queries through the web-based management interface API. By injecting SQL commands, threat actors can manipulate the database and compromise sensitive data.

Affected Systems and Versions

Aruba ClearPass Policy Manager versions prior to 6.9.5, 6.8.8-HF1, and 6.7.14-HF1 are affected by CVE-2021-26686. Users operating these versions are advised to take immediate mitigation steps and apply necessary security patches to prevent exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit CVE-2021-26686 by leveraging authenticated access to the web-based management interface API of Aruba ClearPass Policy Manager. Through carefully crafted SQL injection payloads, threat actors can manipulate database queries, potentially leading to data leakage, unauthorized access, and other security risks.

Mitigation and Prevention

In response to CVE-2021-26686, organizations and users are recommended to implement immediate steps to secure their systems, adopt long-term security practices, and apply relevant patches and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users of Aruba ClearPass Policy Manager versions prior to 6.9.5, 6.8.8-HF1, and 6.7.14-HF1 should restrict access to the management interface, monitor for suspicious activities, and consider implementing network segmentation to reduce the attack surface.

Long-Term Security Practices

To enhance overall security posture, organizations should conduct regular security assessments, provide ongoing security training, enforce the principle of least privilege, and adhere to cybersecurity best practices.

Patching and Updates

Vendor-provided patches and updates should be applied promptly to mitigate the risk of exploitation. Regularly check for security advisories and follow the recommended procedures for updating Aruba ClearPass Policy Manager to secure the environment against known vulnerabilities.