CVE-2021-28098 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2021-28098, a local privilege escalation flaw in Forescout CounterACT allowing attackers to gain elevated system privileges. Find out the impact, affected systems, and mitigation steps.
This article discusses a local privilege escalation vulnerability in Forescout CounterACT before version 8.1.4, allowing attackers to exploit symbolic links to gain elevated privileges.
Understanding CVE-2021-28098
This CVE concerns a security flaw in Forescout CounterACT that enables attackers to escalate privileges locally through manipulation of log file permissions.
What is CVE-2021-28098?
The vulnerability in Forescout CounterACT prior to 8.1.4 allows local privilege escalation by redirecting log files to sensitive system directories through symbolic links.
The Impact of CVE-2021-28098
Exploiting this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized elevation of privileges on the affected system, enabling attackers to replace log files with malicious content.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-28098
This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability, the affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
Forescout CounterACT versions prior to 8.1.4 are susceptible to a local privilege escalation issue that permits attackers to manipulate log file permissions using symbolic links.
Affected Systems and Versions
All versions of Forescout CounterACT before 8.1.4 are impacted by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this issue by leveraging symbolic links to redirect log files to system directories, allowing them to tamper with sensitive files and execute malicious actions.
Mitigation and Prevention
This section outlines immediate and long-term measures to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-28098.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to update Forescout CounterACT to version 8.1.4 or apply patches provided by the vendor to address this vulnerability.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implement strict file permission settings and regularly monitor and review file integrity to detect and prevent unauthorized changes.
Patching and Updates
Regularly check for security updates and apply them promptly to protect systems from known vulnerabilities.